Derek Felicio, Child Pornography Distribution, Rhode Island 2013

North Smithfield Man Charged with Child Pornography

A federal criminal complaint charges Derek Felicio, 41, of North Smithfield, R.I., with allegedly possessing and distributing child pornography.

Felicio was arrested on Thursday following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents into Felicio’s alleged possession and distribution of child pornography.

The investigation revealed that in March 2013, Felicio allegedly contacted an undercover HSI agent in Salt Lake City, UT, on a website which is purported to contain and share images of child pornography. During an exchange of emails, Felicio allegedly sent HSI agents 9 photographs depicting the lascivious display of prepubescent girls. Further investigation by HSI agents revealed that the images were allegedly sent from an IP address in North Smithfield, R.I.

In October 2013, Felicio provided oral and written consent to HSI agents in Rhode Island for the seizure and search of two computers at Felicio’s residence. A forensic examination of the computers conducted by the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children task force resulted in the identification of approximately 90,000 images and 555 videos depicting child pornography.

Felicio is facing charges of distribution of child pornography, punishable by a statutory penalty of a minimum of 5 years and up to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. Possession of child pornography is punishable by a statutory penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Case Details

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee H. Vilker. Felicio was ordered detained in federal custody pending a detention hearing later today.

United States Attorney Peter F. Neronha and Bruce M. Foucart, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in New England, announced the charges.

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