ERIC CANCHOLA, Child Pornography, Illinois 2018

ROCKFORD — A disturbing crime has shaken the quiet streets of Creston, Illinois. Eric Canchola, 25, has been indicted on child pornography charges, leaving the community reeling in shock.

According to sources, Canchola was charged with four counts of transporting child pornography via the internet between March and April 2018. The investigation revealed that he was involved in a heinous online activity, exploiting innocent victims for his twisted desires.

Furthermore, Canchola was also charged with possessing two iPods, a desktop computer, and two portable hard drives in May 2018 that contained an image of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor and a minor who had not attained 12 years of age.

Each count of transporting child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 20 years in prison, while possessing child pornography carries a maximum of up to 20 years in prison. Each count also carries a $250,000 maximum fine.

The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Canchola is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The indictment was announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Jeffrey S. Sallet, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Chicago. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Love.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to wonder how such a heinous crime could occur in their midst. The authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing Canchola to justice.

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