WARNING: Some details of this story may be disturbing to readers. Discretion is advised.
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APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A Freedom man faces ten counts of possession of child pornography.
Michael Verkuylen, 59, made an initial court appearance Thursday, where a $100,000 cash bond was set. He returns to court May 5.
According to the criminal complaint, Fox Valley Metro Police received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about Verkuylen. A search of his phone found about 785 images and 1,450 videos.
For the photos, “approximately 95% of them were prepubescent or pubescent male and female children, toddlers, or infants showing” private areas. Also, “A majority of the images also showed the prepubescent or pubescent male and female children, toddlers, or infants participating in sexual activities,” the complaint states.
If convicted, each count carries a minimum of three years in prison.
He also faces one count for allegedly illegally carrying a concealed weapon. Police found a 9mm handgun in his vehicle but his CCW permit had expired, the complaint states.
