A cyber tip about suspected child pornography activity led the Turlock Police Department to make an arrest of a 60-year-old man who had more than 600 images in his possession.

The suspect was identified by the police department as Kenneth Steven Tharp, 60, of Turlock.

The police department’s High Tech Crimes Detective Gina Giovacchini got the cyber tip on Jan. 26 and began an investigation into Tharp. He was contacted by phone and agreed to meet with detectives at the police station.

Detectives interviewed Tharp and took him into custody on Feb. 1.

Tharp is facing two separate felony child pornography charges: possession of child pornography and the possession of over 600 images, of which, included prepubescent females engaging in sexual activity.

There were no local victims identified during this investigation, according to the police department.

“We are leveraging technology and working hard to stop child exploitation in Turlock,” said Giovacchini.

The Turlock Police Department asks that anyone with information regarding this ongoing investigation to call Detective Gina Giovacchini at (209) 668-6539. You can also contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.

The Turlock Police Department is an active participant in the Crime Stoppers Program. Callers can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 and may be eligible for a cash reward.