A Mexican national, Raul Velasco-Leon, 39, has pleaded guilty to charges related to the transportation of child pornography. The plea follows an investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with support from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The guilty plea marks a significant step in addressing the crimes committed by Velasco-Leon. ICE Homeland Security Investigations Laredo Acting Deputy Special Agent in Charge Mauro Lopez stated, "This guilty plea is a critical step in holding Velasco-Leon accountable for the disturbing crimes he committed."
The case stems from an incident on March 12 when Velasco-Leon attempted to cross into Mexico via the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge from Tennessee. During inspection, authorities discovered youth-sized clothing with "Girl Power" written on it among his belongings. A search of his electronic devices revealed six files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) involving minor victims around ten years old.
Court documents indicate that these files included five photographs and one video depicting CSAM. The video featured a split screen showing Velasco-Leon engaging in inappropriate acts while displaying images of female minors being exploited.
Velasco-Leon admitted to recording these materials during video chats where CSAM was present.
Sentencing will be determined at a later date, with potential penalties including up to 20 years in federal prison and fines reaching $250,000. Until sentencing, Velasco-Leon remains in custody.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine A. Cortez from the Southern District of Texas is handling the prosecution.
