The Jefferson Parish Recreation Athletic Director was arrested this week and accused in a child sexual abuse material investigation.
According to the Kenner Police Department, Timothy Patrick Collins, 67, of River Ridge, is accused of being involved in inappropriate communications with minors and being in possession of child sexual abuse material.
The investigation began Wednesday, Oct. 21, when a concerned mother reported troubling communications between Collins and her 14-year-old son.
According to police, Collins had communicated with the boy for over a year and had been introduced to other children between the ages of 14 and 16.
Kenner police said they discovered a pattern of communications that included exchanges of photographs and arrangements for meetings.
Collins is accused of providing the children with food and alcohol.
Police say Collins portrayed himself as a “trusted adult” the teens could confide in.
A search warrant was obtained for Collins’ cell phone, and police said child sex abuse material was found during the examination of the phone.
Collins was then taken into custody at his home in River Ridge, where other electronic devices were taken for the investigation.
Collins is facing two felony counts of child sex abuse material. His bond was set $100,000.
Kenner police say the investigation is ongoing and detectives are still examining evidence in the case.
Given Collins’ position with the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department and his access to minors, investigators are examining the full extent of his interactions with children.
Additional charges are possible, according to Kenner Police.
Chief Keith Conley has been in contact with Jefferson Parish administration officials who were informed of the nature of this investigation and are cooperating fully with Kenner Police detectives.
“There is no responsibility more important than protecting our children. This investigation is particularly concerning given the suspect’s position of trust and access to young people. I commend the mother whose vigilance brought this matter to our attention and our detectives for their swift response. We will continue following the evidence, identifying any additional victims, and holding those who exploit children accountable,” Chief Conley said.
Chief Conley also thanked the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Metro ICAC Task Force for their help in the investigation.
Jefferson Parish government issued the following statement regarding Collins’ arrest:
“We were notified by law enforcement about the arrest of Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation Department employee Timothy Collins. We are cooperating with local authorities who are investigating this matter. Given the seriousness of these charges, we have moved forward with termination proceedings, and the individual is prohibited from all Jefferson Parish facilities.
“The safety and well-being of our JPRD participants, families and employees remain our top priority. Anyone who believes their child may have had inappropriate contact with Collins, or who possesses information relevant to this investigation, is encouraged to contact the Kenner Police Department at (504) 712-2415.”
According to Conley, Collins’ has a long career in recreation across Southeast, Louisiana.
Before working for Jefferson Parish, he worked and coached at Christian Brothers and St. Martins Episcopal.
Conley said Collins was vetted by the parish and given a background check before being hired to his position in the Jefferson Parish Recreation Department.
READ MORE:Jefferson Parish Recreation Athletic Director accused in child sex abuse material investigation
