A former FBI electronics technician, Justin Carroll, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison. Carroll was found guilty by a jury on charges including sexual exploitation of a minor, coercion and enticement of a minor for unlawful sexual activity, receipt of child pornography, and transferring obscene material to an individual under sixteen. The sentencing was announced by Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that between June 2020 and April 27, 2021, Carroll engaged in sexually explicit communications with three fourteen-year-old females via social media platforms after initially connecting with them on chatting websites. His actions came to light when one victim sent a Valentine's Day package to the FBI office. Investigators found sexually explicit images of the minors on Carroll's social media accounts and cell phone. Images of Carroll were also discovered on one minor’s social media account and another's cell phone. Despite receiving an email from one victim's mother warning him about her daughter's age, Carroll continued communication.
Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire stated, "When someone in law enforcement dishonors their responsibilities by committing criminal acts, we will seek the most serious penalties in order to restore the public’s trust." He added that Carroll had "dishonored the men and women of the FBI" through his actions.
Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office emphasized that justice would be served regardless of one's position: "Today’s sentencing underscores that no matter who you are, you will be brought to justice if you are found guilty of such criminal behavior."
Homeland Security Investigations Nashville Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud affirmed their commitment to justice: “HSI is committed to justice by working with our law enforcement partners to hold anyone accountable for misconduct.”
After serving his prison term, Carroll will undergo supervised release for ten years.
The case was investigated by both the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Nashville and Providence Field Offices with support from Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Monica R. Morrison and Juliet Aldridge led the prosecution.
