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Man Indicted In Child Porn Case Allegedly Tried To Fake Own Death

BERTHOUD, Colo. (CBS4)- A federal grand jury has indicted a man from Berthoud on child pornography charges. Investigators claim he tried to fake his own death after learning he was under investigation.

The investigation into Rayburn Harmon included Berthoud, Loveland, Laramie, Wyo. and Johnstown.

Investigators began their case about a year ago when police in Berthoud joined the FBI to serve a search warrant at a home. That joint effort eventually led to the discovery of a large marijuana grow, child pornography and an attempted faked death.

According to the indictment Harmon, 22, tried to fake his death and have his wife collect $500,000 insurance policy. In April Harmon allegedly took a Cadillac Escalade for a test drive from a GMC dealer in Loveland. He then called 911 and said he was in Carter Lake west of Berthoud.

Harmon: "I've rolled into a (expletive) lake. My car is filling with water."

911 Dispatch: "Okay, you've rolled into a lake?"

Harmon: "I'm test driving a new car and the tires (unintelligible)."

911 Dispatch: "Are you out of the vehicle?"

Harmon: "Yes. (Unintelligible) I'm stuck. Please!"

911 Dispatch: "Are you out of the vehicle or in it?"

Harmon: "No, I'm in it!"

A search of the lake failed to find Harmon or the SUV. Harmon later turned up robbing a Walmart in Laramie, Wyo.

He was eventually located at his mother-in-law's home in Johnstown. He surrendered after a 5-hour standoff with police. In his car police found a suicide note and a gun.

Harmon pleaded guilty to a variety of state crimes and is facing federal charges for possession of child pornography. He is serving time for growing marijuana, vehicle theft and making a false report.

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