Authorities arrested a Merced County teacher Wednesday on charges of possessing and distributing child pornography, the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

The Merced County Sheriff’s Office, working with the Fresno Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce, took Patrick Ryan Silva, 38, of Hilmar, into custody at his home.

Silva, a teacher at Delhi High School, was booked into the Merced County Jail for felony possession of more than 600 images of child pornography and distribution of child pornography, authorities said.

Investigators said they have not found any indication that the material involved local children. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives continue to follow leads.

Got a Tip?

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Detective Darren Stevens at (209) 385-7472. Callers may remain confidential.

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