Darien photographer faces child porn charges

Detectives in DuPage County are trying to identify minors in pornographic photos seized Thursday at a Darien man's home studio following his arrest.

Robert L. Kozel, 64, who owns KOZ Digital Photography and Imaging, is facing possession of child pornography charges.

The sheriff's investigation into Kozel began when deputies stopped a vehicle in which the occupants were suspected of being involved in a drug transaction near Willowbrook.

Authorities said they discovered a 17-year-old female teen in the car had lewd photos of herself of a professional quality. The girl provided them with information that led detectives to search Kozel's business/home in the 8200 block of Woodland Drive in Darien.

Detectives seized photographic equipment, computers, electronic storage devices and a commercial copier printer that Kozel is accused of using to produce child pornography.

Kozel is being held in the DuPage County jail. Police in Darien also arrested him in May 2008 on similar child pornography charges. Kozel pleaded innocent to a 19-count felony indictment and was free on bond.

Sheriff's officials said further charges may come as the most current investigation continues. Anyone with information is urged to contact the DuPage County sheriff's office at (630) 407-2400.