California Man Charged With Child Exploitation

A California man has been charged with using the internet to exploit a minor girl from South Dakota. Thomas Tatar, 27, appeared in federal court on June 13, 2013 and pleaded guilty to using interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor.

The conviction carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in custody, a $250,000 fine, or both; life of supervised release; and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. A presentence investigation has been ordered, and a sentencing date has been set for September 10, 2013.

The investigation revealed that Tatar, who was living in California, had multiple communications with the minor girl between March 27, 2012 and May 15, 2012. Despite knowing that the victim was a minor, Tatar exchanged information with her, including phone numbers, names, and email addresses for the purpose of engaging in a relationship with her and soliciting child pornography from her.

The defendant made repeat requests that the minor photograph herself or video herself and produce material depicting a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct or child pornography. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office of California.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Maher. Tatar was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending sentencing. The defendant’s actions had a significant impact on the victim and her family, and the guilty plea is a step towards justice being served.

The use of the internet to exploit minors is a serious crime, and law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to prevent such incidents. The public is urged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The guilty plea of Thomas Tatar serves as a reminder that those who commit such crimes will face severe consequences.

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