Florida Man Charged with Distributing Child Pornography

GEORGE W. POTTER, 27, of Navarre, Florida, is facing serious charges after being indicted for distributing child pornography, a federal crime that puts him at risk of serving up to 20 years behind bars.

As reported by the U.S. Attorney’s office, POTTER was charged in an indictment for Distribution of Child Pornography. According to the indictment, on January 6, 2012, POTTER distributed images of child pornography through the use of a computer.

If convicted, POTTER faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum penalty of 20 years, followed by up to a lifetime term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. In addition, POTTER will likely be required to register as a sex offender.

U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.

The investigation was conducted by special agents from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, HSI, and the prosecution is being handled by Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Strike Force Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.

The U.S. Attorney’s office is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. With the rise of online child exploitation, it is more important than ever to work together to protect our children.

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