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Army Colonel Convicted of Child Pornography
HARRISBURG – A shocking conviction has sent shockwaves through the military community in Pennsylvania. Robert J. Rice, a 58-year-old Colonel in the U.S. Army, was found guilty of possession and receipt and distribution of child pornography over the internet.
According to U.S. Attorney Peter Smith, the jury returned with the verdict of guilty after approximately two hours of deliberation. The jury found that Rice knowingly possessed child pornography from August 2010 through January 29, 2013, and that he received and distributed child pornography through the internet from January 23, 2013 through January 28, 2013.
Rice was stationed at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, at the time of the alleged crimes. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys James T. Clancy and Chelsea B. Schinnour.
The charges stemmed from an investigation by the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office with assistance from the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Chief Judge Christopher C. Conner has scheduled sentencing for August 12, 2016. Rice faces a maximum penalty of 30 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.
The case highlights the severity of child pornography crimes and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania will continue to work tirelessly to protect children and bring justice to those who exploit them.
The sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Rice’s conviction serves as a reminder that child pornography is a serious crime with severe consequences. The U.S. Army and law enforcement agencies must do more to prevent such crimes and protect our children.
As the U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work on this case, it is clear that justice has been served. The community can rest assured that those who commit heinous crimes will be held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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