Florida Predator: Cardoso Tehovnik Nabbed in Child Sex Case

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Jose Francisco Cardoso Tehovnik, 21, of Orlando, Florida, is facing a lifetime behind bars after being arrested on multiple federal charges relating to the exploitation of a minor. U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Tehovnik has been charged with enticement of a minor, and production, receipt, and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of life.

The investigation, spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Niagara Falls Police Department, revealed a disturbing pattern of online grooming. According to the criminal complaint, Tehovnik initiated contact with a minor female (the victim) in the Western District of New York in February 2024 via Instagram, quickly escalating the communication to Snapchat. The pair exchanged explicit images, including child pornography depicting the victim, and began plotting a meeting.

Tehovnik didn’t hesitate. In April 2024, he flew from Florida to New York with the intent to engage in sexual activity with the victim, before returning to his home state. But he wasn’t finished. On June 4, 2024, Tehovnik returned to the Western District of New York, picked up the victim, and the pair traveled to New Jersey. It was there, authorities say, that law enforcement finally caught up with them, arresting Tehovnik and taking the victim into custody.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin M. Higgins, handling the prosecution, laid out the grim details in the complaint. The case highlights the chilling reality of online predators using social media to target vulnerable children and the swift response needed from law enforcement to protect them. The FBI, under Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Niagara Falls Police Department, led by Superintendent Nicholas Ligammari, worked tirelessly on this case.

Tehovnik made an initial appearance in the District of New Jersey this morning and will be extradited back to the Western District of New York to face the charges. While the charges are severe, it’s crucial to remember that Tehovnik is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the evidence presented thus far paints a horrifying picture of calculated exploitation.

Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds. This arrest serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive threat of online predators and the importance of vigilance in protecting children. Anyone with information regarding similar cases is urged to contact the FBI or local law enforcement immediately. # # # #