Former Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Commissioner, Santa Volunteer Arrested on Child Porn Charges
Authorities said a former Lauderdale-by-the-Sea commissioner and fire chief who served as a Santa Claus volunteer in the city was arrested on charges of possession of child pornography.
James Jude Silverstone, 62, was arrested Thursday on 10 child pornography charges, Broward Sheriff’s Office said.
The investigation began in April when BSO detectives learned of a computer that had downloaded more than 210 files containing images and videos of child pornography, officials said.
Silverstone was identified as a suspect and a search warrant was executed at his Miramar home in May, where detectives seized a number of electronic devices.
On the devices, detectives found hundreds of additional videos and photos of child pornography, some of which involve children, starting with babies involved in sexual acts, officials said.
Silverstone turned himself in and was sent to Broward Jail, where he remained without bail on Thursday, records showed. There was no information about the lawyer.
In addition to previously serving as city commissioner and fire chief, Silverstone was a Santa Claus volunteer for the city, according to officials.
