(PORTLAND, IN) – A Portland, Indiana man has been arrested following a lengthy investigation.

On Thursday, detectives from the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, in collaboration with the LaGrange Police Department and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, arrested a 48 year old Portland man on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges.

The investigation originated from a cybertip report received by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and was initially pursued by the Blackford County Sheriff’s Office. When detectives determined the alleged criminal activity was centered in Jay County, the case was transferred to the Indiana State Police for further investigation.

Over the course of a five month investigation, detectives identified a suspect residing near the 800 block of East Race Street in Portland who was believed to be in possession of child pornography. Upon executing a search warrant at the residence, authorities discovered and seized narcotic drugs, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

During the operation, detectives arrested Robert John McFarland of Portland, who was present at the scene. Further investigation revealed that McFarland was employed as the EMS Director for Jay County EMS and served as a volunteer teacher with the Jay County School Corporation.

McFarland was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Jay County Jail. He is charged with felony counts of possession of a narcotic drug; possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle; theft and official misconduct, and misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

The matter is still under investigation.