⏱ 2 min read
A 6-year-old minor was victimized by Joseph Robert Thompson, a Crookston man, who took a series of explicit photos on October 13, 2024, in an attempt to produce child pornography. Thompson had come to law enforcement’s attention after soliciting illicit images from an undercover officer on August 28, 2024. He was arrested on October 15, 2024, and his home was searched, revealing multiple electronic devices containing child sexual abuse material. Thompson admitted to distributing and receiving illegal material between August and October 2024.
Thompson pleaded guilty to attempted production of child pornography before United States District Court Judge Nancy E. Brasel on June 29, 2026. This federal felony offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, along with a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life.
The guilty plea is a result of the collaboration between the Crookston Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI’s Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force. United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen stated that the guilty plea demonstrates the commitment of federal, state, and local partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who prey on children.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. The case highlights the importance of law enforcement’s efforts to protect vulnerable victims and bring those who harm them to justice.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Minnesota
- Location: MN
- Source: DOJ Press Release
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Sex CrimesSex CrimesSex CrimesSex Crimes