Hammonton Man Charged With Online Child Enticement

HAMMONTON, PA – A grim chapter has been added to the grimy annals of cybercrimes as Joseph Picchi, 49, of Hammonton, New Jersey, finds himself at the center of a federal investigation. The United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen announced today that Picchi has been charged with one count of enticement of a minor, an offense that carries a lifetime imprisonment sentence if convicted.

According to the indictment, on or about July 20-21, 2017, Picchi is alleged to have attempted to entice a minor online, believing them to be under the age of 18, into engaging in sexual activity. This brazen attempt at exploitation has placed Picchi at odds with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse.

Project Safe Childhood, launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006, coordinates efforts across federal, state, and local agencies to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet. The campaign’s relentless pursuit of justice has led to significant strides in protecting our youth from such predators.

This particular case was a collaborative effort between the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Borough of Conshohocken Police Department, and the East Norriton Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Josh A. Davison is leading the prosecution against Picchi, ensuring that justice is served.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world and the necessity for vigilant law enforcement to protect our most vulnerable citizens. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

[1]An Indictment or Information is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.