Gasport Predator Wittcop Admits to Child Porn Possession

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Christopher Wittcop, 43, of Gasport, New York, has confessed to a sickening crime: possessing child pornography. The plea, entered before U.S. District Court Judge Richard J. Arcara, marks a significant, though disturbing, development in a case that exposes the dark underbelly of online exploitation.

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Marie P. Grisanti, the depravity began on July 18, 2011, when Wittcop possessed the illegal material on a laptop computer in Lockport, NY. A meticulous forensic analysis revealed a staggering cache of over 600 images and video files depicting the abuse of children. This wasn’t just passive viewing; Wittcop actively participated in the spread of this filth.

The investigation uncovered that Wittcop wasn’t content with merely possessing the images. He used peer-to-peer software to *share* the child pornography with others across the internet, amplifying the harm and contributing to the cycle of abuse. This act of distribution elevates the severity of his crime and demonstrates a callous disregard for the victims.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice. It’s a grim reminder of the persistent and evolving threat of child sexual exploitation online. The project aims to mobilize federal, state, and local resources to track down predators and protect vulnerable children. More information can be found at www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The FBI Cyber Task Force and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff James Votour, spearheaded the investigation that brought Wittcop to justice. Their relentless work is crucial in combating these heinous crimes and bringing perpetrators to account. The digital trail left by predators is often complex, requiring specialized skills to unravel.

Wittcop now faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for May 20, 2015, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara. While no sentence can undo the harm caused, it’s a necessary step towards holding Wittcop accountable for his reprehensible actions and sending a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated. Contact Barbara Burns at (716) 843-5817 for further information.