Ryan Hebert, 18, of Londonderry, was arrested on Oct. 15 for the alleged possession of child sexual abuse images. Courtesy photo/Londonderry Police Department

LONDONDERRY – Ryan Hebert, 18, of Londonderry, was taken into custody on Oct. 15 for the alleged possession of child sexual abuse images.

According to the Londonderry Police Department, Hebert contacted the juvenile victim on social media. The victim allegedly told police that the communication included Hebert showing “inappropriate images.”

Detectives reportedly discovered additional child sexual abuse images during a forensic examination of Hebert’s electronic devices.

“The Londonderry Police Department urges all parents and guardians to speak with their children about the risks of sharing photos and engaging in online communication with individuals they do not know,” police said in a statement. “We commend the juvenile involved for their bravery in coming forward and reporting this incident. Their actions were critical in initiating this investigation and protecting others in our community.”

Hebert has been charged with 16 counts of possession of child sexual abuse images and one count of certain uses of computer services prohibited.

He was held on preventative detention and was scheduled to be arraigned in Derry District Court on Oct. 16.

Under state law, if convicted, Hebert could face up to 247 years in prison, up to 85 years of probation and up to $68,000 in fines.