DEDHAM, MASS. (WHDH) - A Boston police officer who was arrested Thursday on child pornography charges has been ordered held on bail.
Officer Joe Martinez, a 14-year veteran of the force, pleaded not guilty Friday morning in Dedham District Court to charges of possession of child pornography, posing a child under 18 for nude photos, and secret sex surveillance of a nude person under 18.
Norwood police received digital evidence on Wednesday night, which led to Martinez’s arrest, prosecutor Dan Kaufman told the court.
“Members of the Norwood police received information and digital evidence showing that the defendant before you today, Mr. Joe Martinez, was repeatedly and secretly taping a child relative,” Kaufman said. “When confronted, the defendant admitted he had in fact set the camera up. When asked why he did so, the defendant replied, ‘I don’t know. I have a problem.'”
Martinez, 37, was placed on administrative leave after he turned himself in, according to Boston police.
“The alleged behavior committed by this Boston police officer is disturbing,” said Boston Police Superintendent-in-Chief Gregory Long. “The Boston Police Department will continue to hold its officers to the highest standards.”
The Boston Police Bureau of Professional Standards will continue to work with Norwood police and the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office during the course of this investigation.
Martinez’s bail was initially set at $10,000 but it was reduced to $5,000 following an afternoon hearing.
A judge said Martinez must be fitted with a GPS monitor, refrain from contacting the victim, and stay away from minors under the age of 18 if he posts bail.
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