A federal criminal complaint was filed on Aug. 4 charging Michael Gallo, age 33, of Cranston, in connection with an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Somerset, Massachusetts Police Department. Gallo faces two counts of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), three counts of enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, one count of interstate travel to engage in illicit sexual conduct, and one count of receipt of CSAM.
According to an affidavit submitted in support of the complaint, a Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent assigned to the task force said that between June 2025 and March 2026, Gallo used online communications platforms to attempt to entice multiple minors. The affidavit further said that Gallo traveled from Rhode Island to Massachusetts intending to engage in illicit conduct with a minor and produced and received CSAM involving multiple minor victims. The document describes separate periods involving three alleged minor victims.
Gallo was taken into custody and is currently being held pending further court proceedings. Assistant United States Attorney Lee Vilker is prosecuting the case.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations Providence with assistance from the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Somerset Police Department in Massachusetts, and other law enforcement partners.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island enforces federal laws across the state through prosecutions and civil actions that protect public safety and interest; it operates under the United States Department of Justice; works alongside agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation; advances initiatives like programs for vulnerable residents; and collaborates broadly on law enforcement efforts throughout Rhode Island, according to the official website.