An Indian national, Ashish Kapoor, also known as "Romy Kapoor," has been charged in a superseding indictment with the transportation and possession of child pornography. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson on May 8, 2025. Kapoor, aged 28, is accused of violating Title 18 of the United States Code.
If convicted for transporting child pornography, Kapoor faces a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. He could also be fined up to $250,000 and face supervised release for life along with a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. For possession charges, he faces similar penalties excluding the minimum imprisonment term.
The indictment states that on February 21, 2024, Kapoor transported a cellphone containing digital videos and images depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct. Further allegations include his possession of similar materials involving prepubescent minors under age twelve on December 20, 2024.
Simpson emphasized that the indictment is merely an accusation and that guilt must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood—a nationwide initiative started in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to address child sexual exploitation and abuse. It involves collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies to apprehend offenders exploiting children via the Internet while identifying victims for rescue efforts.
The investigation was conducted by several entities including the United States Department of Homeland Security and New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Carboni from the Financial Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
