John David Przenkop, Child Sex Trafficking, GA, 2014

John David Przenkop, a 47-year-old from Columbus, Georgia, entered a guilty plea in federal court on Monday, February 3, 2014, to the heinous crime of transporting minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, Michael J. Moore, announced the charges.

In what authorities describe as a chilling case of child exploitation, Przenkop admitted to luring two minor females, aged 14 and 15, using promises of gifts and a shopping spree in exchange for sex. He made contact with the victims via MySpace, an online platform that has been exploited by predators for years.

The despicable act took place on or about February 18/19, 2010. Przenkop transported the girls from Phenix City, Alabama, to his residence in Columbus. There, he engaged in sexual conduct with both minors and recorded the encounters, further violating their innocence.

Searches at Przenkop’s residence yielded video recordings of the disturbing incidents. The predator now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years imprisonment up to life in prison, along with a maximum fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for April 29, 2014.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael T. Solis is handling the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Moore emphasized the office’s commitment to tackling human trafficking: “The prosecution of this form of human trafficking that preys on vulnerable victims is a priority.” Ricky Maxwell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Atlanta Field Office, echoed the sentiment, stating that Przenkop’s guilty plea removes a dangerous individual from society. He also encouraged anyone with information regarding such incidents to contact their nearest FBI field office.