U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg | U.S. Department of Justice
United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Joseph Raymond Morin, a 51-year-old resident of Ocala, Florida, to over 11 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor into sexual activity. Following his prison term, Morin will be subject to a lifetime of supervised release. He pleaded guilty on September 5, 2024.
Court documents reveal that between May 3 and June 26, 2024, Morin engaged in online communication with an individual he believed to be a 13-year-old girl. This person was actually an undercover special agent from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Morin's conversations were sexually explicit and culminated in his arrest when he traveled to meet the supposed minor at a location in Marion County. His criminal record includes a previous federal conviction related to firearms.
“Today’s sentence serves as a stark reminder that Homeland Security Investigations is committed to protecting children from online predators,” stated David Pezzutti, HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge. “HSI, alongside our law enforcement partners at all levels, are dedicated to working tirelessly to rescue children.”
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg prosecuted the case.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative started by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project involves collaboration among federal, state, and local resources to apprehend and prosecute offenders while rescuing victims. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/psc.
