A 36-year-old resident of Peoria, Illinois, Paul Graf, has been sentenced to 120 months in prison for attempted enticement of a minor. The sentencing took place in federal court on April 17, 2025. Following his imprisonment, Graf will be subject to 10 years of supervised release.
U.S. District Judge Jonathan E. Hawley presided over the sentencing hearing. Evidence presented at the hearing showed that Graf engaged in communications with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old minor female. These exchanges occurred between April 8 and April 18, 2024, during which Graf expressed sexual interest and discussed explicit sexual acts.
Graf was arrested on April 18, 2024, after traveling to meet the supposed minor at a prearranged location. At the time of arrest, Graf had a cell phone and a bag containing several sex-related items in his possession.
Further testimonies at the hearing included allegations from a minor about repeated sexual abuse by Graf, which led to further sentencing enhancements by identifying Graf as a repeat and dangerous sex offender against minors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Ortiz commented, “Crimes against children are particularly heinous.” She emphasized the need for vigilance against the dangers children face, especially online. Ortiz added that the protection of children remains a top priority for law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of Illinois.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher J.S. Johnson remarked, "This individual used the internet to prey on the vulnerable, believing anonymity would protect him. It didn’t.” Johnson reaffirmed that agents are committed to ensuring justice for those who harm children.
The investigation was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Springfield Office, with support from Homeland Security Investigations and the Peoria Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz prosecuted the case.
Graf's case was part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative by the Department of Justice to tackle child sexual exploitation and abuse, focusing on identifying and prosecuting offenders who exploit children online and rescuing victims.
For more details on Project Safe Childhood, individuals can visit their website.
