On May 13, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted Randy Smith of Kenosha, Wisconsin, on two counts of distributing child pornography. Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced the indictment which charges Smith with violations under Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252A(a)(2)(A).
The indictment states that Smith distributed child pornography on November 13, 2023, and again between August 1 and August 5, 2024. The distribution allegedly used interstate and foreign commerce facilities and means. At the time of these offenses, court records show that Smith was already a convicted sex offender.
If found guilty of either charge, Smith faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to a maximum of 40 years in prison for each count. Additionally, he could be fined up to $250,000 per count.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood—a U.S. Department of Justice initiative started in May 2006 to address child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project coordinates federal, state, and local resources to locate and prosecute individuals exploiting children online while also rescuing victims.
The investigation involved the Kenosha Police Department, Racine Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations in Milwaukee. Assistant United States Attorney Megan J. Paulson will handle the prosecution.
It is important to note that an indictment is not proof of guilt; it is merely a charge. 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: Public Information Officer Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov or call at 414-297-1700.
