A Charleston man has been brought to justice for his involvement in a heinous crime. Jeffrey Scott Beard, a 37-year-old resident of Charleston, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography, a crime that has shaken the community.
According to the investigation, on October 23, 2016, Beard received images of prepubescent minors engaged in sex acts. The images were received on Beard’s computer and thumb drives located at his residence in Charleston. The investigation revealed that Beard was using a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download, receive, and distribute images and videos of child pornography.
Beard further admitted to possessing over 600 images and videos of minors engaged in sex acts. This disturbing discovery has left many in the community wondering how such a horrific crime could take place in their own backyard.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Parkersburg Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston is in charge of the prosecution.
Beard faces at least five and up to 20 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on January 11, 2018. Upon his release from prison, he will be required to serve a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.
Beard’s guilty plea is a significant victory for law enforcement and a testament to their dedication to protecting our children. As the community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this crime, it is clear that justice has been served. Jeffrey Scott Beard will face the consequences of his actions, and the public can rest assured that those who harm our children will be held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Sex CrimesSex CrimesSex CrimesSex Crimes