Rory Shelton, Possession of Child Pornography, Pennsylvania 2024

Child Porn Possession Lands Glassport Man in Hot Water

A 58-year-old man from Glassport, PA, has admitted to having an extensive collection of child pornography, a crime that could land him in prison for up to 20 years.

Rory Shelton, 58, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor in federal court, Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman announced today.

According to court documents, a 16-year-old female went missing from her home in Paducah, Kentucky in May 2019 and was later found staying with Shelton in his one-room apartment in Glassport. A subsequent search of the apartment and Shelton’s cell phones uncovered a massive collection of child pornography, including images of prepubescent minors and sadistic and masochistic conduct.

Sexually exploitive images of the 16-year-old were also discovered during the investigation. Shelton’s guilty plea was accepted by United States District Judge Robert J. Colville, who scheduled sentencing for December 1, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.

The law provides for a total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Pending sentencing, the court ordered Shelton to remain detained. Assistant United States Attorney Lee J. Karl is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Borough of Glassport Police Department, and the Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Shelton.

This case is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child exploitation and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates on any developments.

Related Federal Cases