Convicted Sex Offender Charged With Possession Of Child Pornography: APD

AURORA, IL — A convicted sex offender was taken into custody at the end of April following a years-long investigation into possession of child sexual abuse material, Aurora police said Thursday.

In August 2023, Aurora police began investigating Robert Terry May, 38, based on information of suspected online child exploitation activity received through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Investigators executed search warrants, forensically examined electronic devices and reviewed digital evidence before May was charged with 10 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material and five counts of failure to register as a sex offender, according to a news release. May, of the 700 block of Serendipity Drive in Aurora, was arrested on the charges April 29.

May was convicted in 2014 in Kentucky for child pornography offenses, police said.

"This investigation reflects the extensive and detailed work required in cases involving online child exploitation," Police Chief Matt Thomas said in a statement. "Our detectives worked closely with national partners and used digital forensic tools to identify, investigate, and ultimately bring charges in this case. Protecting children and pursuing those who exploit them remains a top priority."

May was taken to the Kane County jail for processing but was released under pre-trial supervision conditions following a detention hearing. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 28.