In a disturbing development, a prominent figure within Florida's Democratic Party and a well-known LGBTQ activist has been apprehended on charges related to child pornography.
Matthew Inman, aged 39, who held the position of treasurer for the Orange County Democratic Party and led the Rainbow Democrats, an LGBTQ advocacy group, now faces serious allegations. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Florida has charged Inman with the transportation of child sexual abuse material. Authorities allege that he possessed multiple videos depicting the sexual abuse of young children by adults.
As reported by Fox News, the investigation took a significant turn in October 2024 when Inman traveled to Las Vegas. There, he engaged in an online conversation with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as the father of a nine-year-old boy. During this exchange, Inman allegedly expressed a desire to meet and sexually assault the supposed child, even going so far as to send videos of child sexual abuse material to the officer. Following these revelations, the FBI secured a search warrant for Inman's residence. In a desperate attempt to evade capture, Inman reportedly tried to delete incriminating videos from his phone while hiding in his attic.
The Rainbow Democrats, in response to the arrest, expressed their shock and dismay through a public statement on social media. "We offer our condolences to any victims of child sexual abuse and hope justice will be served to the fullest extent of the law," stated the organization's board of directors. They further announced Inman's suspension from the Caucus, emphasizing that he no longer holds any role within the organization and will be officially removed at their next general meeting. The board reassured the community of their commitment to moving past this incident and continuing their service.
An X account, believed to belong to Inman, identifies him as an "LGBTQ+ rights and civil rights activist," highlighting his affiliations with both the Rainbow Democrats and the Orange County Democrats. In light of the charges, the Orange County Democrats have also issued a statement expressing their horror and condemnation of the alleged crimes. "We are deeply appalled and horrified by the news that Matthew Inman has been arrested on charges of sexual abuse involving a minor. We unequivocally condemn child sexual abuse in the strongest possible terms and hope that any victims involved receive the support and resources they need moving forward," the party declared.
Following the allegations, the Orange County Democratic Party acted swiftly to suspend Inman from all voluntary roles and responsibilities, underscoring their commitment to maintaining high standards of accountability and integrity. Inman was taken into custody by the Seminole County Sheriff's Office on January 16 and is currently held at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, as confirmed by state records. The case continues to unfold, leaving many in the community grappling with the implications of such serious accusations against a once-trusted leader.
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