Toms River child porn suspect had loaded, unregistered gun, investigators say

A child pornography tip leads to a Toms River address, a suspect, and a loaded, unregistered handgun, according to Ocean County investigators.

James Hasenauer, 63, is charged with a second-degree count of distribution and third-degree charges of posssession and child endangerment, following his arrest at his Lloyd Road home this morning. He was sent to the Ocean County Jail to await a detention hearing.

Information from Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato's office reveals that in addition to the .44 caliber weapon, investigators confiscated ammunition and marijuana. Toms River police will issue a charge for possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, authorities said.

Officials did not elaborate on the type or number of digital components and images seized, or whether a file-sharing network is involved. The search stemmed from a referral by the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and investigators continue to look into Hasenauer's activities.

Ocean County Detective Kaitlin Mantle can be reached at 732-929-2027, ext. 2740. Information is kept confidential.

Charges are accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless, and until, found guilty in a court of law.