OKEECHOBEE — On Feb. 16, 2022, The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office, Criminal Investigations Division executed a probable cause search warrant at 3332 S.E. 33rd Terrance Okeechobee, Florida.

This investigation was initiated after the O.C.S.O. Investigators assigned to I.C.A.C. (Internet Crimes Against Children) received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

This tip stated that an individual uploaded child pornography to an online server. During the investigation, Detectives were able to determine the exact address from which the C.S.A.M. (Child Sexual Abuse Material) was uploaded.

While executing the warrant, the target of the investigation, suspected 68-year-old Richard Sheetz, was discovered deceased from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Detectives on the scene confirmed Child Sexual Abuse Material on the suspect’s computer, and several electronic devices described within the content of the probable-cause warrant were seized.

The investigation is ongoing; detectives will forensically analyze seized items.

There is no evidence to suggest that any local children are victims; however, if anyone has any information about this incident or subject, please contact O.C.S.O. at (863) 763-3117 or Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 800-273-8477.

To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt, or production of child pornography, please call the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (N.C.M.E.C.) at 800-843-5678.