Galesburg, IL – A Galesburg man was arrested Thursday following a child pornography investigation in Knox County.
According to the Illinois State Police, 45-year-old Destan L. Hoots of Galesburg was taken into custody on 15 counts of possession of child pornography under the age of 13, a Class 2 felony, and one count of dissemination of child pornography, a Class X felony. Authorities said the arrest followed the execution of a search warrant at Hoots’ home in the 400 block of North Academy Street.
Investigators reported collecting electronic evidence that allegedly revealed child sexual abuse materials. Hoots was transported to the Knox County Jail after his arrest. The Galesburg Police Department, Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois Attorney General’s High-Tech Crimes Unit assisted in the case.
The Illinois State Police emphasized that the charges are allegations and that Hoots is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. Authorities also reminded the public that resources are available for reporting child exploitation and supporting survivors, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s cyber tip line at www.cybertipline.com and the Illinois Attorney General’s online safety portal.
Police urged anyone with knowledge of crimes involving child exploitation to report them. Officials said anonymous tips can play a crucial role in protecting children and supporting law enforcement investigations.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
