John Douglas Looney, an 82-year-old resident of Rochester, New York, has pleaded guilty to a new charge related to child pornography. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. Looney admitted guilt before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa for the transportation of obscene material in interstate commerce. This offense could result in a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire is handling the case and noted that Looney had a prior federal conviction for possession of child pornography. Between August 2018 and March 2019, he used internet-connected devices and interactive computer services to receive and distribute obscene images and videos depicting prepubescent children subjected to sexual abuse. Some content involved infants or toddlers being abused sexually. In total, more than one million images were found on three computers owned by Looney.
The plea follows an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), led by Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Looney's sentencing is set for July 10, 2025, with Judge Siragusa presiding over the proceedings.