A Berwick man already facing multiple charges in connection with an investigation involving a juvenile has now been charged with 15 counts of child sexual abuse material, according to the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Benjamin Lemoine, 24, was arrested on the additional charges on July 13, 2026, while remaining incarcerated at the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center. His total bond has been set at $275,000.
The investigation began on Oct. 31, 2025, after a St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office detective received a complaint of indecent behavior with a juvenile in the Bayou Vista area. Investigators met with the complainant and gathered information alleging inappropriate behavior involving a juvenile.
During the investigation, detectives obtained digital evidence that supported the allegations. Based on the evidence, an arrest warrant was issued charging Lemoine with indecent behavior with a juvenile, carnal knowledge of a juvenile, and computer-aided solicitation of a minor.
The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office coordinated with the Louisiana State Police, who located Lemoine at a festival and took him into custody. He was transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center on Nov. 3, 2025, for booking.
As the investigation continued, detectives said they uncovered additional digital evidence, including photos and videos, on Lemoine’s cellphone. That evidence led to a new arrest warrant charging him with 15 counts of child sexual abuse material.
Detectives formally arrested Lemoine on the additional charges on July 13, 2026. He remains in custody at the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center as the investigation continues.
