A 32-year-old Toms River man pleaded guilty Tuesday to distributing child sexual abuse material, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

Cory Baxter entered the plea before Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan. Prosecutors said they will recommend a four-year state prison sentence when Baxter returns to court on Jan. 22, 2027.

Prosecutors will recommend parole supervision for life, and Baxter will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law.

The investigation began after the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about images being exchanged online.

Investigators traced an IP address associated with a Kik messaging account to a Toms River residence and ultimately identified Baxter, prosecutors said.

On July 21, detectives executed a search warrant at Baxter's home. A forensic examination of his electronic devices confirmed he had distributed several images of child sexual abuse material, according to prosecutors.

Baxter was arrested without incident and taken to the Ocean County Jail.