Adam C. Cobb Sentenced for Child Porn Distribution

Adam C. Cobb, 48, formerly of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, was sentenced today to 5 years in federal prison for distributing child pornography, closing a years-long investigation marked by digital sleuthing and international cooperation. The sentence, handed down in U.S. District Court in Providence, underscores the federal crackdown on online exploitation of minors.

U.S. District Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. ordered Cobb to serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison term and imposed a $25,000 fine. Cobb pleaded guilty on February 24, 2016, to one count of distribution of child pornography, a charge stemming from images uploaded to Tumblr.com in January 2015. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children flagged the activity, triggering a probe by the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (RI ICAC) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

Investigators traced the uploads to an IP address linked to Cobb’s former Portsmouth residence. On March 5, 2015, a coordinated raid by RI ICAC, HSI, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service agents seized computers, phones, and digital storage devices from the home. A second phone was intercepted days later at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport as Cobb returned from Tokyo, Japan, adding critical evidence to the case.

Forensic analysis of the seized devices revealed graphic photos and videos depicting two underage females. With help from the Baltimore Police Department and HSI offices in Baltimore and London, England, investigators identified both victims—turning a digital footprint into real-world justice. The findings painted a damning picture of premeditated exploitation.

Cobb was arrested on April 3, 2015, but initially released on a $1,000,000 surety bond. That freedom ended December 21, 2015, when the court revoked his release after he admitted violating the terms of pre-trial supervision. He has remained in federal custody ever since.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Terrence P. Donnelly. Officials involved in the takedown include United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha, HSI Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. Etre, and Rhode Island State Police Superintendent Colonel Ann S. Assumpico. Authorities emphasize that the sentence sends a clear message: those who distribute child pornography will face relentless pursuit and severe consequences.