Public encouraged to notify law enforcement if they have any further information
PRESS RELEASE
Indianapolis-United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced today that a Bloomington, Indiana, man has been indicted for possession of matter containing child pornography. James Hans Huffman, 47, was arrested this morning by local and federal law enforcement officials. He had an initial appearance before a federal magistrate this afternoon and remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
“Protecting minor victims from sexual predators will always remain a top priority of this office," said Minkler. “Those who are not able to protect themselves are the victims for which we will advocate the hardest."
According to the indictment, from November 6, 2017, through Dec. 19, 2017, Huffman possessed one or more matters which contained visual depictions of minors under the age of 12 years old engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
The public is encouraged to call law enforcement officials if they have any reason to believe Huffman may have had inappropriate contact with their children or other youth in the community. The FBI’s toll-free number is 800-CALLFBI (225-5324) or www.fbi.gov/tips. Concerned citizens may also call the Bloomington Police Department at 812-339-4477.
This case is being investigated by the Bloomington Police Department and the FBI.
“Today’s charge illustrates the FBI’s ongoing commitment to protect the most vulnerable in our society, our youth, from those who would attempt to exploit them," said Grant Mendenhall, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Division. “This arrest also demonstrates the strong partnerships we have with our law enforcement partners and our continued efforts to identify and hold accountable those who prey on children."
According to Assistant United States Attorney Bradley P. Shepard who is prosecuting this case for the government, Huffman faces up to 20 years imprisonment if convicted.
An indictment is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the Office’s firm commitment to prosecuting those who exploit or harm children and to work closely with Project Safe Childhood. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan 4.1 and 4.2
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
