An Anchorage man has been charged with child exploitation offenses, including attempted enticement of a minor, attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Benjamin Roundy, also known as “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko,” is accused of engaging in sexually explicit actions and attempting to produce child pornography through messaging app and text message communications. If convicted, Roundy faces a minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum life sentence. The FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force is actively investigating the case and encourages anyone with information to contact them.
Background Information
Anchorage Man Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges
On August 8, 2023, an Anchorage man named Benjamin Roundy was arrested on criminal charges related to his alleged involvement in child exploitation. The charges include attempted enticement of a minor, attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. These offenses are serious and carry severe penalties under federal law.
Charges Against Benjamin Roundy
According to court documents, Roundy, also known as “Aleks” or “Alekzander Marko”, is accused of attempting to produce child pornography and coercing a minor to engage in sexually explicit actions through communications on a messaging app and text messages. Additionally, Roundy is charged with possessing child pornography depicting a minor under the age of 12 on his cell phone. These charges demonstrate the disturbing nature of Roundy’s alleged actions and the potential harm caused to young victims.
Potential Penalties for Roundy if Convicted
If Roundy is convicted on all counts, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum life term in prison. The exact sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge, who will consider factors such as the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory requirements. These penalties reflect the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect children from exploitation.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Date and Location of the Arrest
The arrest of Benjamin Roundy took place on the morning of August 8, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska. Law enforcement authorities took swift action to apprehend Roundy and prevent any further harm to potential victims. This arrest demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to safeguarding children from exploitation.
Alleged Involvement in Attempted Enticement of a Minor
Court documents allege that Roundy engaged in attempted enticement of a minor by using a messaging app and text messages to coerce a minor into engaging in sexually explicit actions. This alleged behavior is deeply troubling and highlights the dangers posed by individuals who seek to exploit vulnerable young people. The charges against Roundy reflect the gravity of these offenses.
Alleged Attempted Production of Child Pornography
Roundy is also accused of attempting to produce child pornography. The use of technology, such as messaging apps and cell phones, in the commission of these types of crimes underscores the need for vigilance and ongoing monitoring to protect children. The prosecution of Roundy on these charges sends a strong message that such actions will not go unpunished.
Alleged Possession of Child Pornography
In addition to the other charges, Roundy is accused of possessing child pornography depicting minors who have not attained 12 years of age. Possessing child pornography is a serious offense that perpetuates the victimization of children and contributes to the broader issue of child exploitation. The identification and prosecution of individuals involved in the possession of child pornography is vital to safeguarding young people.
Identification of Benjamin Roundy
Benjamin Roundy, also known by the aliases “Aleks” and “Alekzander Marko”, has been identified as the individual involved in these alleged offenses. By identifying Roundy, law enforcement authorities can gather further information and potentially uncover additional evidence that may be pertinent to the case.
Investigation by FBI
Involvement of FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force
The investigation into Benjamin Roundy’s alleged actions is being conducted by the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. This specialized task force is dedicated to targeting individuals who exploit children and engage in trafficking-related offenses. The involvement of the task force underscores the gravity of the charges and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combatting child exploitation.
Seeking Information from the Public
As part of their investigation, the FBI is seeking information from the public. If anyone has any information concerning Roundy’s alleged actions or may have encountered someone using the name “Aleks” in person, via text message, or on an online messaging app, they are urged to contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office at (907) 276-4441 or anonymously online at tips.fbi.gov. Public cooperation and information are crucial in helping law enforcement build a strong case against Roundy and potentially uncovering any additional victims.
Prosecution of the Case
Prosecution by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander
The case against Benjamin Roundy will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander. As a federal prosecutor, Alexander has experience in handling cases involving child exploitation and will diligently pursue justice for the victims and ensure that Roundy is held accountable for his alleged crimes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska is dedicated to prosecuting these types of offenses to the fullest extent of the law.
Project Safe Childhood Initiative
This case is brought under the umbrella of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in 2006. Project Safe Childhood aims to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse by coordinating federal, state, and local resources. The initiative focuses on identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting individuals who exploit children online and rescuing victims. The participation of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force in this case demonstrates their commitment to the goals of Project Safe Childhood and their dedication to protecting children from harm.
In conclusion, the arrest and charges against Benjamin Roundy highlight the urgency and importance of combatting child exploitation. The alleged involvement in attempted enticement of a minor, attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography demonstrate the serious nature of these offenses. The investigation led by the FBI, with assistance from the public, will help uncover the truth and potentially identify additional victims. The prosecution of Roundy by Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander, under the auspices of Project Safe Childhood, underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to ensuring that those who exploit and harm children will face justice.