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Cranford Man Charged with Distribution of Child Pornography
Cranford resident Christopher Gardiner, 35, has been charged with distributing images of child sexual abuse, following a federal investigation into his online activities.
According to the complaint filed in federal court, Gardiner engaged in a sexually graphic conversation with an undercover agent on a web-based social media application between March 2018 and June 2018. During this time, he allegedly posted multiple videos depicting the sexual abuse of children in a chatroom and sent similar videos directly to the undercover agent.
The FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Gregory W. Ehrie, conducted an investigation into Gardiner’s activities, resulting in his arrest and detention at his home. Law enforcement discovered numerous videos of child pornography on his electronic devices during the arrest.
Gardiner, who was previously convicted of endangering the welfare of a child and distribution of child pornography in Union County in 2007, faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine for the charge of distribution of child pornography. The charge of possession of child pornography for a repeat offender carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Gardiner’s defense counsel is Peter Carter Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender (Newark). The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Barnes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Public Protection Unit in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and Gardiner is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced the charges, crediting special agents with the FBI for the investigation leading to today’s charges.
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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