Christopher Mat Minnick, a 22-year-old resident of Tannersville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that include production of child pornography, online enticement, transfer of obscene material to a minor, and receipt of child pornography.
According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus, "the indictment alleges that Minnick used the internet and an electronic device to persuade and entice a minor to engage in sexual conduct and to produce child pornography. The indictment also alleges that Minnick transmitted obscene materials to four minors."
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations-RAC Allentown and the Pocono Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, which was started by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to address child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative coordinates efforts among federal, state, and local agencies to find and prosecute those who exploit children and to identify victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc.
If convicted on all counts in the indictment, Minnick could face up to life imprisonment, supervised release after prison time, and a fine. Sentencing decisions are made by a judge based on federal statutes and guidelines.
Authorities emphasized that indictments are only allegations and that anyone charged is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
