Keith Clifford Cunningham, Sexual Exploitation of Children, Montana 2013

A 69-year-old Arizona and Montana resident, Keith Clifford Cunningham, has been charged with Sexual Exploitation of Children in a federal court session in Great Falls, Montana.

Cunningham appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Keith Strong on May 9, 2013, and is currently being held in detention. If convicted of the charge, Cunningham faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $250,000 and lifetime supervision.

The investigation into Cunningham’s alleged crimes was a cooperative effort between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations and the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyndee L. Peterson is leading the prosecution against Cunningham.

Cunningham has pleaded not guilty to the charge. It is worth noting that a charge is merely an accusation, and all individuals named as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. A pre-trial conference and trial date will be set, and the United States will be required to prove the allegations set forth in the indictment beyond a reasonable doubt.

The alleged crimes are a serious offense, and the community is likely to be outraged by the charges against Cunningham. The prosecution will need to present evidence to support their claims, and Cunningham will have the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations.

The case is a reminder of the importance of protecting children from exploitation and abuse. It is essential that those who commit such crimes are held accountable for their actions. The community can expect a thorough investigation and prosecution of this case.

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