Appleton Predator Frank Indicted in Child Sex Crimes Case

APPLETON, WI – Neil A. Frank, a 35-year-old resident of Appleton, Wisconsin, is facing a new round of serious federal charges, accused of preying on a minor through the dark corners of the internet. A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment on September 9, 2020, alleging a pattern of depraved behavior that continues a disturbing history.

According to the indictment, Frank utilized a computer to attempt to entice a minor into unlawful sexual activity, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b). He’s also accused of attempting to transfer obscene material to a minor, running afoul of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1470. Adding to the gravity of the situation, Frank is further charged with two counts of committing a felony sex offense while already obligated to register as a sexual offender under Title 18, United States Code, Section 2260A – a clear disregard for the law and a dangerous escalation of his prior offenses.

This isn’t Frank’s first brush with the law. Court records show he was convicted of attempted possession of child pornography in Outagamie County Circuit Court back in 2012. As a result, he’s been legally required to register as a sexual offender in the State of Wisconsin. His prior conviction now looms large, potentially adding significant time to any new sentence. Federal prosecutors are signaling they will pursue the maximum penalties available.

The investigation, led by the Fox Valley Metropolitan Police Department with crucial assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, underscores the ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble will be prosecuting the case, bringing the full weight of the federal justice system to bear. The case is being pursued under the umbrella of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 dedicated to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting those who exploit children online.

Project Safe Childhood, spearheaded by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), funnels federal, state, and local resources into the fight against child sexual abuse. The program aims not only to punish perpetrators but also to rescue victims trapped in this horrific cycle. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

It is crucial to remember that an indictment is merely an accusation. Neil A. Frank is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. He is entitled to a fair trial and the right to defend himself against these serious charges. The Department of Justice is currently celebrating its 150th anniversary; further information about the agency’s history can be found at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.