In a recent case that has shocked the community of Bigelow, Arkansas, a 26-year-old man named Jakob Brown has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for the production of child pornography. Brown, who is a registered sex offender, was arrested after the Conway Police Department received a report of harassment and extortion on social media platforms. Following an investigation, it was revealed that Brown possessed numerous videos and images of child sexual abuse material, some involving prepubescent victims as young as four to five years old. In addition to his prison sentence, Brown will also serve 20 years of supervised release. This disturbing case underscores the importance of continued vigilance in combating child exploitation and protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.
Background
Incident report
In April 2020, the Conway Police Department received a report regarding a male individual harassing and extorting a female victim on Facebook and Snapchat. The user of these social media accounts was later identified as Jakob Brown, a registered sex offender. Following the report, Brown was arrested for sexual extortion and his phone was seized as evidence.
Arrest and evidence
During the examination of Brown’s cell phone, law enforcement authorities discovered 18 videos and 87 images of child sexual abuse material. Shockingly, some of the videos depicted prepubescent females, approximately four-to-five years old, engaged in explicit sexual acts. The seized evidence clearly demonstrated Brown’s involvement in the production and distribution of child pornography.
Indictment and guilty plea
As a result of the investigation, Jakob Brown was indicted in December 2020. He subsequently pleaded guilty to the charges in June 2022, acknowledging his involvement in the production of child pornography. The guilty plea further solidified the evidence against Brown and paved the way for his sentencing.
Sentencing
Prison term
In light of the severity of Jakob Brown’s crimes, he was sentenced to serve 25 years in federal prison. This substantial prison term reflects the gravity of his actions and serves as a punishment for the harm inflicted upon the victims involved.
Supervised release
In addition to the 25-year prison sentence, Brown was also ordered to serve 20 years of supervised release following his imprisonment. This period of supervised release aims to ensure that Brown is closely monitored and held accountable for his actions even after his release from prison.
Investigation and prosecution
FBI involvement
Throughout the investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) played a critical role in uncovering the extent of Jakob Brown’s criminal activities. The FBI obtained search warrants for Brown’s Snapchat accounts, leading to the discovery of incriminating conversations he had with a minor female victim. The involvement of the FBI was instrumental in building a strong case against Brown.
Conway Police Department involvement
The Conway Police Department took immediate action upon receiving the initial report of harassment and extortion. They swiftly identified Jakob Brown as the perpetrator and carried out his arrest. The department’s thorough investigation and cooperation with other law enforcement agencies were crucial in bringing Brown to justice.
Prosecutor’s role
Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant played a pivotal role in prosecuting Jakob Brown. With her expertise and dedication, Bryant ensured that the evidence against Brown was presented effectively in court, leading to his guilty plea. The prosecutor’s commitment to seeking justice for the victims involved showcases the importance of skilled legal professionals in addressing cases of child pornography.
Other similar cases
Former Little Rock Police Officer’s conviction
In a separate case in the Eastern District of Arkansas, a former Little Rock Police Officer named Eddie Scott Seaton was recently convicted of receiving obscene images and possession of child pornography. Following a three-day jury trial, Seaton, aged 55, was found guilty. This case serves as a reminder that individuals in positions of authority can also be held accountable for their participation in such heinous crimes.
Preschool Teacher’s Assistant’s sentencing
Augustus “Gus” Shenker, a 23-year-old former preschool teacher’s assistant from Little Rock, was recently sentenced to serve 90 years in federal prison for producing child pornography. This significant sentencing demonstrates the seriousness with which the courts approach crimes involving the exploitation of minors.
Fayetteville Man’s sentencing
Steven Luckett, a 38-year-old man from Fayetteville, was sentenced to serve 30 years in federal prison for the production of child pornography. This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to bring offenders to justice and protect vulnerable children from harm.
Contact information
Main office address
For more information or assistance, please contact the main office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas at the following address:
P.O. Box 1229 Little Rock, AR 72203
Email and telephone
You can also reach out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office via email at USAO-EDAR or by telephone at (501) 340-2600. The dedicated staff at the office will be ready to provide any necessary information or support.
Stay connected
Stay up to date on the latest news and developments from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas by following their Twitter feed @EDARNEWS. By staying connected, you can ensure that you are informed about the efforts being made to combat child pornography and protect vulnerable children in our communities.