Eric Hartman Sentenced

Eric Hartman, 34, of Saginaw, has been sentenced to 19½ years in federal prison for sexually exploiting children. This sentencing is the result of an investigation and subsequent guilty plea to sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of a minor.

The announcement of Hartman’s sentencing was made by United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison, who was joined by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Detroit Field Office. United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Ludington imposed the sentence on June 27, 2024.

Hartman’s crimes came to light in 2023 when a 13-year-old victim reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation that Hartman was threatening her and forcing her to send sexually explicit images and videos to him online. Law enforcement traced Hartman to Saginaw, and the FBI executed a search warrant at Hartman’s residence, recovering multiple electronic devices.

Analysis of these devices by the FBI revealed numerous online conversations between Hartman and minors, where Hartman requested the minors send him sexually explicit videos. Additionally, numerous images and videos of other child sexually abusive material were found. This evidence was crucial in building the case against Hartman and ultimately led to his guilty plea.

U.S. Attorney Ison praised the bravery of the young victim who came forward, stating, “This case came to light through the bravery of a young victim who came forward to bring her predator to justice. This sentence justly punishes the defendant for preying on children and hopefully will encourage others to seek help from trusted adults and law enforcement if they are being coerced into sending explicit images online.”

Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson emphasized the FBI’s commitment to apprehending sexual predators, saying, “Mr. Hartman is a glaring example of the manipulative nature of sexual predators, underscoring the relentless efforts of the FBI to apprehend these criminals and safeguard our children. His actions were despicable, and those who perpetrate such crimes will face justice.” Gibson urged anyone with knowledge of child sexual exploitation to report it at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.

The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katharine Hemann. Judge Ludington also sentenced Hartman to five years of federal supervised release following his release from incarceration, ensuring ongoing oversight of Hartman’s activities after his prison term.