Authorities: Deerfield man had child sex abuse images

A Deerfield man is facing multiple charges of possessing images and videos of child sex abuse, many involving children as young as toddlers, Lake County sheriff’s police said.

Sheriff’s detectives received a tip from a social media provider, indicating a device in Lake County possessed suspected child sex abuse. An investigation determined the likely source was coming from a home on the 400 block of Jonquil Terrace in Deerfield.

A search of the home Thursday with the help of Lake County sheriff’s electronic detection K9 Enzo and the state’s attorney’s office electronic detection K9 Grip resulted in the seizure of electronics containing dozens of child sexual abuse material and videos of children belonging to Rami M. Gabriel, 49, of the same residence, authorities said.

Detectives also discovered evidence indicating Gabriel was communicating online with others about the forcible sexual assault of victims and expressing a sexual interest in children.

Gabriel is charged with 10 felony counts of possession of child pornography. The state’s attorney’s office intends to file a petition to detain Gabriel in jail while he awaits trial.

Additional charges are likely and sheriff’s detectives are continuing their investigation.

Anyone who may have had contact with Gabriel relevant to the investigation is urged to call Lake County sheriff’s detectives at (847) 377-4000.