Cedrick Campbell, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced on July 23 to three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle handed down the sentence, as announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin said, “Those who view, possess, and share child sexual abuse material deserve severe punishment because they re-victimize the innocent, exploited child each and every time one of those horrific images and videos is seen. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute these sick offenders to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep our kids safe.”
According to court documents, the Tallahassee Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received information that Campbell was possessing and viewing child pornography. The investigation led authorities to execute a search warrant at his residence where a search of his cell phone revealed he had also used an overseas server to access and store such material.
FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley said, “Every image of child sexual abuse represents the exploitation of a real child. These investigations are an opportunity to protect children, identify victims and hold offenders accountable. The FBI, alongside our partners, will continue to investigate these crimes and ensure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tallahassee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Ravelo and Meredith Steer prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood—a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice aimed at combating child sexual exploitation online through coordination among federal, state, and local agencies.
The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida advances community safety by upholding federal law across 23 counties including Tallahassee and collaborates with law enforcement through initiatives such as Project Safe Childhood, according to its official website.