John Francis Williams, Internet Enticement Of A Minor, Florida 2015

ORLANDO, Florida – In a shocking case of online predation, a South Carolina doctor has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for using the internet to attempt to persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity.

John Francis Williams, 69, was found guilty on August 31, 2015, after a four-day jury trial. The crime took place in October 2012, while Williams was visiting his vacation home in Port Orange, Florida.

According to evidence presented at trial, Williams responded to a Craigslist ad placed by an undercover officer posing as the mother of a 14-year-old girl who was looking for a man to teach her child about sex. After a series of emails and phone calls with the ‘mother,’ Williams drove to a house where he intended to have sex with the teen. He brought an overnight bag containing condoms, lubricants, and vibrators.

Williams, a practicing cardiac anesthesiologist at the time, was arrested and charged with internet enticement of a minor. The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bruce S. Ambrose. It was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.

Williams’ sentencing is a significant victory for law enforcement and the community. It serves as a reminder that online predators will be held accountable for their crimes and that children are protected from exploitation. The case highlights the importance of continued efforts to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.

In a statement, the authorities emphasized the severity of Williams’ crimes and the need for continued vigilance in protecting children from online predators. The case is a stark reminder that the internet can be a dangerous place for children, and that adults must be held accountable for their actions.

Related Federal Cases