On May 20, 2025, a federal indictment was issued against Ryan S. Schroeder of Francis Creek, Wisconsin. The indictment accuses the 37-year-old of producing child pornography in August and September of 2023, violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
According to the charges, Schroeder “knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced Jane Doe A, a minor, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct.” If found guilty on either count, Schroeder faces a mandatory prison sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years. Additionally, he could face fines up to $250,000 per count and would be required to register as a sexual offender under both state and federal law.
The case is part of Project Safe Childhood. This initiative was launched by the U.S. Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. It aims to utilize federal, state and local resources to locate and prosecute individuals exploiting children via the Internet while also identifying and rescuing victims.
The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Mishicot Police Department investigated this case with support from the Manitowoc County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble will handle prosecution.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation; it does not imply guilt. The defendant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
For further information regarding this case or Project Safe Childhood initiatives: Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov or call 414-297-1700.
