Edwin Morones, a 23-year-old Mexican citizen who previously lived in Watertown, New York, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for distributing child pornography. The sentencing took place in Syracuse, New York.
Morones pleaded guilty to three counts of distributing child pornography. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York, he used a social media platform during November and December 2024 to participate in groups that traded child pornography. He sent numerous files to other users, including one he created himself. Morones also distributed sexually explicit images of children that he had personally produced. Investigators found more than a dozen images and videos classified as child pornography on his social media account. Authorities confirmed that Morones does not have legal status in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “The defendant, who was illegally present in the U.S., used what he thought was a secure social media platform to distribute child pornography and indulge his sick sexual fantasies. But our law enforcement partners, including the dedicated agents at HSI, have methods to monitor and identify child predators, no matter how they communicate. We thank those who work with law enforcement and honor their oaths to protect and defend the constitution from all enemies foreign and domestic by apprehending dangerous criminals like this. We cannot play politics in ensuring the safety and security of the citizens we serve.”
Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan commented: “Edwin Morones, a Mexican national illegally in our country, shamelessly abused his unlawful presence to prey on children and distribute vile content online. Together with our law enforcement partners, HSI Syracuse will bring predators in our communities to justice, no matter their background or status, as reflected with today's sentence. HSI Syracuse will continue to defend our neighborhoods and safeguard our children from those who exploit our most vulnerable and flout U.S. rule of law."
United States District Judge Anthony J. Brindisi imposed an additional 15-year term of supervised release following Morones’ imprisonment. Upon release from prison, Morones will be required to register as a sex offender.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with help from the New York State Police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative led by U.S Attorneys' Offices together with federal agencies aiming to address online exploitation of children through coordinated efforts among federal, state, and local resources. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at https://www.justice.gov/psc.
