Jason M. Smith, 36, of Tonawanda, New York, is headed to federal prison for 40 years after being convicted of producing child pornography and sexually exploiting multiple minors over a four-year period. The sentence, handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny, marks the end of a grim investigation into a predator who used digital access and personal connections to victimize children.
On April 11, 2014, the Lancaster Police Department raided Smith’s residence on Byron Avenue, executing a search warrant that uncovered external hard drives packed with disturbing evidence. Forensic analysis by the Western New York Regional Forensic Laboratory confirmed Smith had been producing child pornography at his home, with digital files dating back to at least 2010.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott S. Allen, Jr., Smith exploited his relationship with Victim 1’s father to coerce the child—under 12 years old at the time—into sexually explicit conduct, which he recorded. Between 2010 and 2012, he systematically documented the abuse, creating visual depictions that constitute federal child pornography offenses.
Smith’s predatory behavior extended online. Between July 2011 and September 2013, he met 15-year-old Victim 2 on MeetMe.com, manipulated her into sexual intercourse, and photographed the encounters. Federal prosecutors emphasized the calculated nature of the crime, noting Smith’s use of social media to target vulnerable minors.
Investigators uncovered far more. A forensic review of Smith’s electronic devices revealed over 1,000 images of child pornography and evidence of sexual assaults against at least five additional underage female victims. The sheer volume and severity of the material underscored the depth of Smith’s criminal enterprise.
The case was jointly pursued by FBI Special Agents under Special Agent-in-Charge Adam S. Cohen, the Lancaster Police Department led by Chief Gerald J. Gill, Jr., and the Cheektowaga Police Department under Chief David Zack. Acting U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. affirmed the sentence sends a clear message: those who exploit children will face relentless prosecution and decades behind bars.
Related Federal Cases
- Bronx Man David Keith Pleads Guilty to Child Porn Production · New York
- Albany Man Pleads Guilty to Child Porn Production · North Carolina
- Rochester Man Charged with Child Porn Production · New York
- Randolph Man Charged With Child Porn Production · Ohio
- David Roy Jones Gets 20 Years for Child Porn Production · New York
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Sex CrimesSex CrimesSex CrimesSex Crimes