Waterford Predator: Bruno Indicted on Child Exploitation Charges

HARTFORD, CT – Richard Bruno, 46, of Waterford, is facing a lifetime behind bars after a federal grand jury indicted him on sickening charges of attempted enticement of a minor and production of child pornography. The indictment, unsealed today by U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly, alleges a calculated and disturbing pattern of abuse spanning months.

According to the indictment, between April 8, 2016, and May 5, 2016, BRUNO allegedly used his cell phone and various internet platforms to attempt to lure a minor into illegal sexual activity. But the alleged crimes didn’t stop there. From November 2015 through May 2016, BRUNO is accused of actively enticing and coercing a minor into performing sexually explicit acts – all for the purpose of creating a video recording of the abuse.

If convicted on these charges, BRUNO is staring down a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, with the potential for a life sentence, for the attempted enticement. The production of child pornography carries an even steeper penalty: a mandatory minimum of 15 years, and a maximum of life in prison. These aren’t plea bargains; these are the stakes when predators target the most vulnerable.

BRUNO is already in custody, having been arrested on related state charges back on May 19, 2016. While in state custody, federal authorities continued to build their case, culminating in today’s indictment. U.S. Attorney Daly was quick to emphasize that an indictment is not a finding of guilt, and that BRUNO is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. But the allegations are deeply disturbing and demand justice.

The investigation into BRUNO’s alleged crimes was a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with crucial support from the Connecticut State Police and the New London Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy V. Gifford is prosecuting the case. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the legal system.

If you suspect child exploitation, do not hesitate to report it. Resources are available. Visit www.cybertipline.com to submit a report.