Walter Tharrington, a 32-year-old Philadelphia resident also known as “Black” and “Roaadblock,” has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for sex trafficking of a minor and possession of child pornography. The sentence, handed down by United States District Judge Joel H. Slomsky, also includes 10 years of supervised release.
Tharrington was indicted in August 2024 and convicted at trial in April 2025. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, during the summer of 2023 he recruited a 14-year-old girl to engage in commercial sex acts. He facilitated these acts by posting online advertisements using explicit images of the minor and set prices for sexual encounters. Tharrington kept the profits from these activities while providing shelter for the victim at his home.
Testimony revealed that Tharrington physically assaulted the minor on several occasions. Another underage female corroborated the victim’s account and stated that Tharrington had solicited her as well.
“Walter Tharrington made money by sexually exploiting a child,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf. “Putting anyone through that, let alone a vulnerable minor, is unconscionable. Know that my office and the FBI are working every day to put traffickers like this defendant behind bars and ensure some justice for their victims.”
Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Field Office, commented: “Sex trafficking, especially when it involves a child, is one of the most egregious crimes the FBI investigates. This sentencing sends a clear message: the FBI and our law enforcement partners will relentlessly pursue those who prey on our most vulnerable and ensure they are brought to justice.”
Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse added: “The sentencing of Walter Tharrington is an important step in holding traffickers accountable, but it does not erase the harm done. Sex trafficking, especially of minors, is a monstrous crime and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold each and every participant accountable for their actions. I want to thank U.S. Attorney Metcalf and his team for their diligence and unfailing cooperation. Delaware County is fortunate to be able to call them partners as we all work to protect our children.”
The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation through coordinated efforts among federal, state, and local agencies. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at projectsafechildhood.gov.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force along with Delaware County District Attorney’s Office Criminal Investigation Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Justin Ashenfelter and Amanda McCool prosecuted the case.
