DETROIT – A Detroit Fire Department lieutenant is facing federal charges after investigators alleged he attempted to receive and possessed sexually explicit images involving children.
Federal prosecutors charged Lt. Derek McMenemy with attempted receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
According to the criminal complaint, some of the material involved children as young as nine or 10 years old.
Federal investigators searched McMenemy’s Riverview home in May as part of the investigation.
Court records state that later the same day, McMenemy turned over his cellphone to investigators.
According to the complaint, investigators found numerous images on the device depicting McMenemy wearing black thigh-high stockings.
The filing also alleges McMenemy used the messaging application “Kik,” where investigators say he discussed joining groups to exchange child sexual abuse material.
McMenemy made his initial appearance in federal court following the charges.
The case remains pending.
The Detroit Fire Department said McMenemy was placed on administrative leave without pay after learning of the federal case.
“The Detroit Fire Department is aware of the criminal complaint filed against one of our members and takes the accusations very seriously.
Immediately upon learning of the case on July 16th, and in accordance with department policy, the member was placed on leave without pay pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.
Due to this being an active federal criminal investigation, we are unable to provide any further comments on the matter.”
Detroit Fire Department