Convicted Child Molester Allegedly Caught Contacting a Minor and Collecting Thousands of Abuse Images From Prison

A Florida inmate already serving a 25-year prison sentence for child sexual abuse offenses is facing a new investigation after authorities allegedly discovered an illegal cellphone in his prison cell containing thousands of child sexual abuse images.

Thomas Kendall Jr., 44, was incarcerated at Martin Correctional Institution after being sentenced in September 2024 for child molestation and possessing child sexual abuse material, according to PEOPLE.

The latest investigation began after authorities received a tip through the Internet Crimes Against Children program. Investigators traced the information to Kendall and searched his prison cell, where they allegedly found a contraband cellphone.

According to investigators, a forensic examination of the device uncovered thousands of child sexual abuse images. Some were reportedly AI-generated images depicting a victim connected to Kendall’s original case. Authorities also alleged that he had been communicating with a minor through social media while behind bars.

Kendall’s earlier case involved serious allegations. An arrest report from November 2023 alleged that he photographed himself sexually abusing a relative and paid someone overseas $40 to sexually abuse a young girl during a live video chat. The FBI also charged him with producing child pornography in connection with that case.

Kendall was subsequently convicted of state offenses and sentenced to 25 years in prison. According to reports, he is also expected to serve a federal sentence after completing his state term.

Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said the latest allegations highlight the risk posed when inmates gain access to unauthorized communication devices.

“A prison cell does not necessarily stop someone intent on sexually exploiting children from finding new victims,” Budensiek said in a statement to PEOPLE. He added that authorities would continue investigating credible leads and pursuing alleged offenders, regardless of whether they were already incarcerated.

The sheriff also called for stronger measures to prevent cellphone smuggling into prisons, arguing that unauthorized devices can allow inmates to continue criminal activity from behind bars.

Florida’s Department of Corrections said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding contraband cellphones and is cooperating with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation.

Authorities have indicated that Kendall will be transferred to the Martin County Jail as investigators pursue additional charges. The investigation remains ongoing, and the new allegations have not yet been established in court.

The case has renewed concerns about prison security and the challenges of preventing online exploitation when inmates obtain access to hidden mobile devices.

Source:  PEOPLE