Michael Duhe, Jr., age 21, of Metairie, Louisiana, was charged on June 18 in a two-count indictment for transportation and possession of materials involving the sexual exploitation of minors, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle on June 29.
The indictment alleges that beginning on or about December 4, 2024, Duhe knowingly transported and attempted to transport in interstate and foreign commerce a visual depiction involving the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. It further states that from an unknown time until January 16, 2026, Duhe knowingly possessed images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of minors.
If convicted, Duhe faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to twenty years in prison, a fine up to $250,000, supervised release ranging from five years to life following imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory $200 special assessment fee.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office adopted the state charges through collaboration with state and federal authorities and is now prosecuting Duhe in federal court. Courcelle said that “the indictment is merely a charge, and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood—a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse—led by United States Attorney’s Offices along with federal agencies including Homeland Security Investigations and local law enforcement partners. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is handling prosecution as Project Safe Childhood Coordinator.