Police Seek Identity Of Children Molested By Traveling Salesman

Authorities are seeking the identity of numerous children, who were molested by a traveling salesman. Officials estimate Matthew Coniglio sexually assaulted more than 50 children, while traveling throughout the United States. A majority of the victims were likely residing in, or visiting, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, between 2000 and 2014.

Coniglio was arrested in April, on charges of possessing and distributing child pornography. In the course of investigation, authorities recovered “more than 50,000 images and videos” from the suspect’s computer and home.

Investigators also recovered a total of 56 8-millimeter films, which were recorded by Coniglio himself. In the films, Coniglio can be seen sexually assaulting young girls — who appear to be unconscious.

Authorities believe a majority of the footage was filmed in hotel rooms, while Coniglio traveled for work. It is unclear how many victims were molested by the traveling salesman. However, FBI Special Agent William Kirkconnell confirmed the youngest victim is approximately 10 years old.

Kirkconnell said “there’s no doubt” that Matthew Coniglio is the man featured in the films. However, authorities have only positively identified one of the victims. As the girls were unconscious, and often facing away from the camera, their identities remain unknown.

Coniglio is no longer available for questioning, as he committed suicide within days of his arrest. Authorities hope some of the victims, or their parents, will be able to identify their attacker and find some closure.

As reported by CP 24, Coniglio was originally questioned by authorities in 2005 — when he attempted to assault an 11-year-old girl. Authorities said the suspect posed as a photographer and the owner of a modeling agency.

With the parents’ permission, Coniglio took the girl to a hotel room to take photos. However, the girls said she felt uncomfortable when he asked her to lay on the bed. Although the girl denied an actual assault, the incident was reported to authorities.

With no evidence of an actual assault, Coniglio was set free. Eight years later, authorities learned at least 50 little girls were molested by the traveling salesman.

Following his 2014 arrest, authorities identified one of Coniglio’s victims. They hope the story, and photos of the suspect, will help other families begin to heal.

As reported by Huffington Post, Coniglio denied the accusations. In his suicide note, which was addressed to his parents, the suspect admitted that he had a “troubled soul.” However, he explained that the accusations were “untrue and exaggerated.”

Although authorities are certain numerous girls were molested by the traveling salesman, they need help determining the exact number and identity of the victims. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact law enforcement.

[Image via Island Packet]