Justin X. Carroll, Child Pornography, Missouri 2016

University City Man Charged with Child Pornography

Justin X. Carroll, a 50-year-old University City resident, was indicted on child pornography charges in federal district court, according to a source close to the investigation.

The indictment, which was filed last Wednesday, reveals that Carroll was part of a group of child pornography sharers who were identified by federal investigators through an internet investigation. The probe, led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), uncovered a network of individuals sharing and distributing child pornography online.

Carroll’s involvement in the child pornography ring was discovered after investigators traced IP addresses to his residence and Washington University, where he served as Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. The university cooperated fully with the investigation, providing valuable assistance to federal authorities.

U.S. Attorney Richard Callahan praised the cooperation of Washington University, stating that the investigation only identified Carroll’s online activities as criminal wrongdoing. ‘We appreciate the university’s willingness to cooperate with our investigation,’ Callahan said.

If convicted, Carroll faces up to 20 years in prison and/or fines of up to $250,000. The maximum penalty is determined by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges for federal offenses.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Livergood is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Carroll’s court appearance marked the beginning of a lengthy legal process, during which he will be presumed innocent until proven guilty. As is standard procedure, charges set forth in an indictment are mere allegations, and Carroll’s guilt will be determined by the court.

The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by online child exploitation rings. Law enforcement agencies and the public must remain vigilant in identifying and reporting such activity to prevent further harm to vulnerable individuals.

Carroll’s indictment is a significant development in the fight against child pornography. As the investigation continues, federal authorities will work to ensure that those responsible for such heinous crimes are held accountable.

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