Pennsylvania lawmaker Michael Folmer charged with possession of child pornography

Pennsylvania State Sen. Michael Folmer was charged with possession of child pornography late Tuesday night, officials announced.

Folmer, who was first elected to the state Senate in 2006, was found with images on his phone after officials, including the Department of Homeland Security, served a search warrant at his home Tuesday, according to a press release from Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro.

Officials began their investigation after a tip that someone had uploaded child pornography on Tumblr, according to the AG’s office.

“This defendant serves as a state Senator and was entrusted to honor and represent his community in the Pennsylvania Capitol,” Shapiro said in a statement. “I will continue to say it — no one is above the law, no matter what position of power they hold. I will continue to work to protect children and hold those who abuse them accountable.”

Gov. Tom Wolf called for Folmer’s resignation early Wednesday.

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“We elect leaders to serve as a voice for those who do not have the ability to advocate for their own needs, demanding that they will protect our children, families, and communities," he said in a statement. "The charges against Senator Folmer are disgusting and beyond comprehension, and show he has taken advantage of the trust and privilege afforded by the people of Pennsylvania. He should immediately resign.”

Folmer was also removed from his position as chairman of the Senate State Government Committee after the charges were filed.

“We are shocked to learn tonight of the allegations made against Senator Folmer," Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman said in a joint statement. "We will fully cooperate with law enforcement regarding this deeply disturbing matter.

Folmer was formally charged with sexual abuse of children, possession of child pornography and criminal use of a communication facility.