By Journal Staff

HANCOCK — The Michigan State Police Computer Crimes Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, announced the arrest of 21-year-old Dominic Joseph Barrette, of Hancock for child sexually abusive material — aggravated possession, child sexually abusive material — possession and using a computer to commit a crime.

Barrette was arrested following an investigation after learning Barrette was viewing files of child sexually abusive material on the internet.

According to MSP’s news release, a search of the residence resulted in digital evidence being seized.

Barrette was charged with nine counts of child sexually abusive material — aggravated possession, one count of child sexually abusive material — possession and 10 counts of using a computer to commit a crime.

Barrette was arraigned in the 97th District Court Wednesday.

If convicted, Barrette faces up to 10 years in prison for the child sexually abusive material –aggravated possession charge, four years in prison for the child sexually abusive material charge and 10 years in prison for the charge of using a computer to commit a crime, MSP said in the release.

The MSP Computer Crimes Unit encourages parents to speak to their children and family members about the safe use of the internet.

Many resources are available to assist in keeping people safe online.

The MSP ICAC Task Force provides a comprehensive list of resources online at michiganicac.com.

Information regarding possible child sexual exploitation can be reported to the CyberTipline at missingkids.org/cybertipline.