Gardner Whitney, Child Exploitation, Massachusetts 2011

BOSTON — A Westfield man was charged today with the sexually exploitation of a child.

Gardner Whitney, 61, was indicted on seven counts of sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child pornography.

The indictment alleges that between June 2010 and December 2011, Whitney used a minor to produce child pornography and that he possessed child pornography.

The maximum sentence under the statute is 30 years in prison on each count of sexual exploitation of a child and 10 years on the charge of possession of child pornography, followed by a lifetime of supervised release and a $2 million fine.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Mark G. Mastroianni, Hampden County District Attorney; Colonel Timothy P. Alben, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Chief John Camerota of the Westfield Police Department, made the announcement today.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex J. Grant of Ortiz’s Springfield Branch Unit.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

In the case of Gardner Whitney, the alleged victim was a minor at the time of the alleged crime. The charges bring to light the devastating consequences of child exploitation and abuse, and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.

As the investigation continues, the community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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