Bobby G. Chaplin, 33, of rural Gerald was arrested on allegations child sex crimes according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The arrest followed an investigation by the patrol’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) of the Division of Drug and Crime Control (DDCC).

These investigators were assisted by the Missouri Digital Forensic Center, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Troop C personnel and the Gerald Police Department.

In June 2026, while conducting an online child pornography investigation, SVU investigators searched online for offenders sharing child pornography. Investigators identified a specific Internet Protocol (IP) address associated to a file identified as child pornography. Chaplin’s  physical address was found to be associated with the IP address associated to a file identified as child pornography. Chaplin’s physical address was found to be associated with the IP address and the under-aged pornographic content.

On July 7 investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in the 5100 block of Timber Lane. They contacted and interviewed Chaplin. They searched the residence and seized evidence of child pornography. Chaplin was arrested and transported to the Franklin County Adult Detention Facility where he was placed on an investigative hold. SVU investigators sent a probable cause statement to the Franklin County Prosecutor, seeking felony charges.

The Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Chaplin July 8 with five counts of possession of child pornography. He is currently being held without bond.

DDCC encourages internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate or sexualized communications with children.

The charges for which the above individual was arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.