WASHINGTON, D.C. – Richard J. Pavel III, 34, of the District of Columbia, is facing federal charges after his arrest last week in connection with the distribution and receipt of child pornography. The arrest, announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, comes as part of a disturbing case involving not only the possession of illegal images but also active discussions regarding the sexual abuse of young boys.
Law enforcement executed search warrants at Pavel’s Northwest Washington, D.C., residence on September 4, 2025, seizing multiple electronic devices. The raid culminated in Pavel’s immediate arrest. Authorities allege that Pavel engaged in communication with another individual, revealing a shared and deeply troubling interest in exploiting children. This communication reportedly included the exchange of numerous images depicting child pornography.
Following an initial court appearance on September 4, Pavel was ordered held without bail pending a detention hearing scheduled for September 9. The details revealed paint a grim picture of deliberate and calculated actions, going beyond mere possession to active participation in a network of abuse. Sources within the investigation indicate the communication was explicit and detailed, outlining disturbing fantasies.
This case is being prosecuted under the umbrella of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. The program aims to combat the pervasive epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse by marshaling federal, state, and local resources. U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) are leading the charge, focusing on the identification, apprehension, and prosecution of offenders, as well as the rescue of victims.
The investigation was a collaborative effort led by the FBI Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. This task force, comprised of FBI agents, federal agents, and detectives from across northern Virginia and the District of Columbia, is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting those involved in the exploitation of children and human trafficking. The team worked tirelessly to gather evidence and build a case against Pavel.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Bohlen is prosecuting the matter. Pavel is now facing the full weight of federal law, and if convicted, could face decades behind bars. The case number is 25mj197. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments. Those seeking information about Project Safe Childhood can visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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