Prosecutors allege that the man traded in tens of thousands of hardcore pornographic images and videos that depicted children ranging from infants to toddlers and teenagers being graphically sexually assaulted or abused — in most cases by adults. In some cases, the videos were submitted by customers who had filmed themselves actively molesting children.
The network of websites includes sites with names such as “Illegal.CP,” ”The Sick Child Room,” ”Hottest Childporn Garden,” and “Pedo Heaven.” The sites also contained warnings that their content was “considered illegal in all countries” and that users should report their credit card information as stolen if questioned by police.
The network has resulted in 560 convictions of American consumers in 47 states. Federal authorities say the list of those convicted includes teachers, clergy, law enforcement, lawyers, doctors, coaches and others who came in regular contact with minors.
If you are facing a charge that involves child pornography, you will need an attorney who is up-to-date on the latest legal developments in evidence and legal defenses. An attorney can advise you on how different types of evidence may be used, such as instant messages, text messages, e-mails, social media, pictures and webcam images. An attorney can also advise you if the defense of entrapment may be available.
Source: The Washington Post, “Ukrainian man charged with being worldwide distributor of child porn appears in NJ court,” June 11, 2012