⏱ 2 min read
Derek Gaff, a 45-year-old Columbia City, Indiana, man, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for possessing child pornography. The crime occurred between September 2023 and April 2025, with Gaff having a prior conviction for the same offense in Whitley County. Gaff pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady.
Gaff’s sentence includes 120 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $13,000 in restitution, with further restitution to be determined at a later date. The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative aimed at protecting children from exploitation and abuse.
The investigation was led by the Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana State Police, the Whitley County Sheriff’s Office, and the Whitley County Prosecutor’s Office. U.S. Attorney Adam L. Mildred praised the efforts of the agencies involved, stating that the community’s children are safer with Gaff behind bars.
Gaff’s actions were deemed ‘evil’ by U.S. Attorney Mildred, who emphasized that offenders who possess child pornography contribute to the perpetual victimization of innocent children. The case highlights the importance of Project Safe Childhood and the need for continued efforts to protect children from exploitation and abuse.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Indiana
- Location: IN
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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