For Immediate Release: March 19, 2026
Man Arrested for Unlawful Imaging, Possession, and Production of Child Pornography
LYNCHBURG, Va. – On March 14, 2026, the Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) responded to Dick’s Sporting Goods, 3385 Candlers Mountain Rd, to investigate after a customer reported locating a potential recording device in the women’s dressing room.
LPD officers immediately began working with store management, who are fully cooperating with this investigation, and assisted in identifying the suspect as a store employee.
Officers identified Derek Lee Beard, 26, of Lynchburg, Virginia, during the initial investigation. He was detained and later charged with unlawful filming that same day.
As the investigation continued, Beard was arrested on the following additional charges on March 17:
– Creation of an Unlawful Image of Another (Felony)
– Production of Child Pornography (Felony)
– Use of a Computer to Commit Sexual Crimes Against Children (Felony)
– Possession of Child Pornography (Felony)
– Creation of an Unlawful Image of a Minor (Felony)
The evidence in this case has led LPD detectives to believe this type of activity may have been ongoing for several months at the store. We are actively working to identify potential victims.
Individuals who used the changing rooms at this location between March 13, 2026, and March 14, 2026, are encouraged to complete the LPD Victim Identification Form available via the secure link below.
https://form.jotform.com/260773843613057
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective G. Brown at 434-455-6132 or submit online at https://form.jotform.com/260773843613057
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and any additional information will be provided as an update to this release.