Deputies say a Houston-area man is behind bars after investigators turned up hundreds of files described as "child erotica" on an electronic device seized from a home in Hockley. Court records show 31-year-old Sergio Guel has been booked on a single count tied to lewd visual material depicting a child, while detectives work to figure out exactly who appears in the images.
According to Click2Houston, the device was taken during an investigation by the Harris County Precinct One Internet Crimes Against Children unit. Investigators say they recovered hundreds of photos and videos and that forensic examiners are now methodically cataloging what was found. Detectives added they are reviewing the material to see whether any of the children depicted have a known connection to Guel.
Court and public records reviewed by reporters indicate Guel has worked in technology and has been commissioned as a private security officer by the State of Texas.
Charges and penalties
Guel faces one count of possession of lewd visual material depicting a child, Click2Houston reported.
Under Texas law, that offense is a state jail felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to two years in a state jail facility and a fine, according to the Texas Penal Code.
Investigators ask for tips
Detectives are asking anyone with information about Guel or any sexual impropriety involving children to contact the Precinct One ICAC tip line at 713-222-4929, ABC13 reported. Officials say those tips could help identify possible victims or witnesses as the forensic review of the seized material continues.
What the unit says
Precinct One's Internet Crimes Against Children unit, which is part of the Houston-metro ICAC task force, has led multiple local probes into online exploitation, according to the constable's press materials. The office notes that these investigations are typically evidence heavy and can stretch on for months while deputies work through large digital collections file by file.
Guel remains in custody, and the case is pending in local court while investigators continue their review. This story will be updated if new filings or official statements are released.
