Levy County, FL – A disturbing investigation continues to unfold in Levy County, where registered sex offender Jeffery Lashley (DOB 9/11/1959) is now facing 16 additional charges related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) after detectives uncovered new evidence from a forensic examination of his seized cell phone.
Lashley, who was arrested on July 1, 2025, by Detective Cody Weaver for violations related to his sexual predator registration, has remained in custody on a $200,000 bond. But as law enforcement emphasized, an arrest is never the end of the investigation—and in this case, continued efforts have now revealed more serious and deeply troubling offenses.
Ongoing Investigation Leads to Shocking Discovery
As part of the initial arrest, Detective Weaver lawfully seized Lashley’s phone and immediately began the process of securing a search warrant for a deeper forensic analysis. Even though Lashley was already in jail, the investigation continued without pause.
The forensic review of Lashley’s device revealed that he had searched for and downloaded multiple videos containing CSAM—content depicting the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. This alarming discovery added an entirely new layer to an already serious case and prompted swift action by investigators and prosecutors.
On July 10, 2025, following the completion of the forensic analysis, 16 additional felony charges of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material were filed against Lashley.
Bond Increased to $1 Million
During Lashley’s first appearance on the new charges this morning, a Levy County Court judge reviewed the evidence presented by law enforcement and the severity of the charges. The judge issued an additional $800,000 bond, bringing Lashley’s total bond amount to $1 million.
Officials have made clear that Lashley’s incarceration does not mean the danger has passed. The digital evidence found on his device represents a grave and continued threat to the most vulnerable in society—our children. Investigators are also working to determine whether the content found on Lashley’s device involves any locally known victims or networks.
A Message from Law Enforcement
“We don’t stop just because an arrest is made,” said Detective Weaver, emphasizing that public safety demands vigilance and thorough investigation, especially in cases involving sexual predators. “The digital footprint often tells a deeper story—and in this case, it led us to a whole new level of criminal behavior that had to be addressed.”
What Comes Next
Jeffery Lashley remains in custody at the Levy County Jail, and his case will now proceed with multiple felony-level charges. Law enforcement officials stress that child exploitation crimes are taken with the highest level of seriousness, and those who possess, distribute, or create such material will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges are possible depending on the outcomes of extended forensic analysis and collaboration with state and federal cybercrime units.
Community Support and Awareness
Authorities are asking community members to remain vigilant. If anyone has information about Lashley’s activities or suspects someone may be involved in the possession or distribution of CSAM, they are encouraged to report it immediately through:
- The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) via the CyberTipline
- Or by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
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