Sean Banks, 55, and Asheyla Barbour, 31, both from Franklin County, Pennsylvania, have been indicted by a federal grand jury. They face charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors and drug trafficking, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that the indictment comprises fourteen counts, including allegations that Banks produced videos exploiting two minors between June 2023 and March 2024. Barbour is accused of allowing these minors to participate in explicit conduct. Additionally, Banks and Barbour are charged with distributing and receiving child pornography. They are also alleged to have intended to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana.
The Pennsylvania State Police and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Dukes.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice launched in May 2006. Project Safe Childhood aims to combat the growing issue of child exploitation and abuse by bringing together federal, state, and local resources. It targets individuals who exploit children and seeks to identify and rescue victims. More information can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc.
Under federal law, the maximum penalty for each violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a), is 30 years of imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of 15 years. There is also a term of supervised release after imprisonment and a possible fine. Sentencing occurs after a guilty verdict, with considerations for federal sentencing statutes and guidelines.
The current indictments are allegations, and the accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
