A Kentucky man has been sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for production of child pornography.
Scotty Dale Johnson, 51, of Richmond, was sentenced Sept. 22 by U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove after a plea agreement, a news release said. He pleaded guilty in March 2021.
“This disgraceful conduct involved both predatory deception and sexual exploitation of a minor,” U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky Carlton Shier IV said in the release. “Sadly, this case serves as a stark reminder of the serious risks minors face when online. That means we must all be diligent in protecting them and demonstrating safe online activity. Due to the work of our enforcement partners, fortunately, this case can also serve as a warning to those who engage in this conduct: the consequences will likely be a significant prison sentence.”
Johnson befriended teenage boys while pretending to be a teenage female on a Snapchat account he created and engaged in sexual chatting with the boys, some of whom he knew in real life, according to the release. He reportedly corresponded with more than 1,000 people, including several minor males.
“One victim, known by Johnson, was persuaded, induced, enticed or coerced to send sexually explicit images of himself, via Snapchat, believing he was corresponding with a teenage female,” the release said. “The victim became suspicious that the account was fraudulent and eventually reported it to law enforcement.”
Special Agent in Charge FBI Louisville Jodi Cohen said Johnson’s case demonstrates the dangers children face online in which the vulnerable can be targeted, the release reported.
“With this sentencing, we have removed a dangerous child predator from our community, and a clear message has been sent that those who seek to exploit children will be held accountable,” Johnson said, according to the release.
Federal law requires Johnson serve 85% of his prison sentence. At his release, he will be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for life, the release reported.
