Jeffrey Erra Osborne, Possession of Child Pornography, West Virginia 2014

Charleston, W.Va. — In a shocking turn of events, former West Virginia State Police forensic analyst Jeffrey Erra Osborne has pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography. This disturbing crime has left the community reeling and raises serious questions about the vetting process of law enforcement personnel.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s office, Osborne, 48, of Clendenin, West Virginia, admitted to possessing pictures of prepubescent minors engaged in sexual acts on his personal computer at his home. The images were discovered on January 17, 2014, during a search warrant executed by the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the West Virginia State Police.

As a forensic analyst for the West Virginia State Police, Osborne had access to sensitive information and was entrusted with upholding the law. His actions have brought shame to the law enforcement community and have led to a thorough review of the hiring and vetting process of the West Virginia State Police.

The court has scheduled Osborne’s sentencing for February 10, 2015. He faces up to 20 years in prison for his crimes. This case is being brought as part of U.S. Attorney Booth Goodwin’s ongoing initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse in the Southern District of West Virginia.

Osborne’s guilty plea is a stark reminder of the dangers of child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in preventing such crimes. The West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force are to be commended for their tireless efforts in bringing this perpetrator to justice.

The investigation into Osborne’s crimes has been ongoing since January 2014. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution. This case serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit and harm innocent children.

Defendant: Jeffrey Erra Osborne

Criminal Charge: Possession of Child Pornography

City and State: Charleston, West Virginia

Exact Date: January 17, 2014 (crime date)

Sentence or Outcome: Up to 20 years in prison

Defendant’s Address: Clendenin, West Virginia

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