David Roger Franklin, a businessman from Yakima, Washington, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison. The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker on February 18, 2025. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian also ordered 10 years of supervised release following Franklin's conviction for production, transportation, and possession of child sexual abuse material.

The case came to light when a computer technician discovered inappropriate images and videos on Franklin's laptop on June 21, 2022. FBI agents confirmed that some photos were taken with Franklin’s cell phone and involved the sexual abuse of a young child known to him. During an interview with authorities, the child disclosed that Franklin had instructed them to keep the abuse secret.

In addition to these images, investigators found 89 videos and 21 still images depicting other instances of child sexual abuse on Franklin’s computer.

Acting United States Attorney Rich Barker commended the bravery of the victim who reported the abuse despite suffering significant harm. He stated: “I am so humbled by the courage of the victim in this case, who suffered such incredible harm, but nonetheless came forward and stood up to Mr. Franklin.” He emphasized his team's commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.

W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office, remarked on the severity of producing such material: “Possessing child sexual abuse material is disturbing enough, but producing it, as Mr. Franklin did, is another thing entirely.”

The investigation was conducted by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael D. Murphy and Letitia A. Sikes.