Kevin Landry, 28, of Stillwater, New York, pleaded guilty on January 23, 2026, to receiving child pornography. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
According to court records and his plea agreement, Landry admitted to using a messaging application in September 2024 to receive child sexual abuse material. Previously, in 2020, Landry had pleaded guilty in Tennessee state court to solicitation of a minor for aggravated sexual exploitation after obtaining a nude photo from a female child through Snapchat and threatening to distribute it unless more images were sent. He received an order of deferral and judicial diversion for that offense.
Acting United States Attorney Sarcone stated: “Landry caught a huge break from state authorities after sexually exploiting a child—and he squandered it. His guilty plea in federal court makes one thing unmistakably clear: repeat offenders who prey on children will face swift, aggressive prosecution and severe consequences. This office, alongside HSI and all our federal law enforcement partners, will use the full weight of federal law to protect children and impose the harshest consequences on those who prey on them.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Keegan said: “Kevin Landry’s actions represent a shocking disregard for the safety and dignity of children. His repeated exploitation underscores the grave threat posed by individuals who commit these offenses. HSI Albany remains relentless in our pursuit of those who prey on the most vulnerable, ensuring they are held fully accountable. The public can be assured that protecting children from such depravity is our highest priority.”
Landry faces sentencing on May 27, 2026. He could receive between 15 and 40 years in prison, along with a fine up to $250,000 and supervised release ranging from five years to life. Sentencing decisions will be made by a judge based on relevant statutes, U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Upon release from prison, Landry will be required to register as a sex offender.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Rosenthal is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is an initiative led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section that coordinates efforts among federal, state, and local agencies to combat online child exploitation crimes and rescue victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at https://www.justice.gov/psc.
