David Walter McCauley, a resident of Buckhannon, West Virginia, has admitted guilt to charges related to child pornography. The announcement was made by United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld.
The 66-year-old appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography. Court documents reveal that McCauley enticed a 17-year-old boy into sexually explicit activities for photo and video production. A search of his residence and office led investigators to seize electronic devices containing illegal images and videos depicting sexual acts with the minor.
McCauley could face up to ten years in prison, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office recommending the maximum sentence. The final decision will be made by a federal district court judge who will consider various factors including U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld stated, “Manipulating a child to produce pornographic images is a despicable crime,” adding appreciation for law enforcement efforts ensuring McCauley no longer poses a community threat.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is handling prosecution duties for this case, which was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pittsburgh Police Department, and Upshur County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. It coordinates resources from various levels of government to locate and prosecute offenders while rescuing victims. More information can be found at Justice.gov/PSC.
The proceedings were overseen by U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone.
