A South Texas man has been sentenced to over 33 years in prison for crimes involving the enticement of a minor and the production of child sexual abuse material. This follows an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force.
Christian Hanks, aged 29 from McAllen, received his sentence on February 19 from U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez. He was given 400 months for enticement and 360 months for producing child pornography, with the sentences to run concurrently. The court emphasized the repetitive nature of his offenses and the manipulation involved, describing Hanks’ actions as those of a sexual predator. Post-incarceration, he will serve ten years under supervised release with restrictions on internet access and contact with children. Additionally, he must register as a sex offender after pleading guilty on October 15, 2024.
Mark Lippa, ICE HSI Deputy Special Agent in Charge, stated: “The conviction and sentencing of this individual today highlights our steadfast dedication to safeguarding our children.” He added that the sentence sends a strong message against such behavior.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ganjei remarked: “As the court found, the defendant’s behavior in this case was particularly abhorrent, and deserving of a significant sentence.” He stressed the importance of protecting children from predators like Hanks.
Court documents revealed that Hanks recorded himself abusing a minor in December 2023 and had communicated over several years about further abuse plans. The investigation also uncovered grooming activities involving another minor in Louisiana.
Hanks remains in custody awaiting transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cahal P. McColgan and Earl M. Campbell from the Southern District of Texas.
