Christopher Paul Botimer Gets 28 Years for Child Porn Production

Christopher Paul Botimer, a 59-year-old Au Gres resident and computer network engineer, was sentenced to 28 years in federal prison for producing child pornography, including grotesque images of a 2-year-old child in his care. The Bay City federal court handed down the sentence yesterday, marking the end of a years-long investigation into Botimer’s predatory digital trail and sexual exploitation of a vulnerable minor.

Botimer pleaded guilty in December 2020 to one count of using a minor to produce visual depictions of sexually explicit conduct. The crime occurred on or about October 6, 2017, in Arenac County, Michigan, where Botimer took explicit photographs of the toddler. During the abuse, he engaged in sexual contact with the victim and saved the images across multiple electronic devices in his home.

Prior to the abuse, Botimer had a documented history of seeking out child pornography online. For years, he repeatedly downloaded and saved sexually explicit material involving minors, often deleting and re-downloading files to evade detection. He also distributed some of the material through peer-to-peer networks, exposing other children to further exploitation and amplifying his criminal reach.

In addition to his prison term, Botimer was ordered to pay $54,500 in restitution to the victims and a $5,100 special assessment. The sentence was announced by Acting United States Attorney Saima Mohsin, who did not mince words: “Botimer is a child predator and his conduct was reprehensible.” She emphasized that the sentence removes a clear and present danger to young children.

The FBI’s Detroit Division, led by Special Agent in Charge Timothy Waters, spearheaded the investigation. Agents combed through digital devices, internet records, and file-sharing logs to build an airtight case. Assistant United States Attorneys Anca Pop and Jaqueline Hotz prosecuted the case, methodically presenting evidence that left no doubt about Botimer’s intent and actions.

“Today’s lengthy sentence ensures Botimer will no longer be a threat to young children,” Mohsin said. “I commend the agents and prosecutors who worked on this case and hope that this 28-year sentence helps bring some closure to the victim and victim’s family.” Botimer will also face lifelong supervision upon release and must register as a sex offender.