LAKEWOOD, OH – Cory A. Buckholz, 24, of Lakewood, is facing serious federal charges after being indicted for the distribution and possession of child pornography. The indictment, unsealed today, details a disturbing pattern of online activity that has drawn the attention of both the United States Secret Service and the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
According to documents filed with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio, Buckholz knowingly received and distributed numerous computer files containing visual depictions of real minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct between May 13, 2014, and May 19, 2014. The indictment alleges that these files were transmitted via computer, exploiting the anonymity of the internet to facilitate the horrific abuse of children.
The investigation didn’t stop at distribution. On August 1, 2014, authorities executed a search warrant at Buckholz’s residence, seizing a black, homemade tower computer, a Western Digital external hard drive, and a Seagate external hard drive. Forensic analysis of these devices allegedly revealed a substantial collection of child pornography, further solidifying the case against the defendant.
United States Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach emphasized that an indictment is merely an accusation. “A defendant is entitled to a fair trial,” Dettelbach stated, “and it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.” Buckholz is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
If convicted, Buckholz faces a sentence determined by the court, taking into account Federal Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines consider factors such as prior criminal record, the defendant’s role in the offense, and the specific characteristics of the violation. While the statutory maximum sentence is unspecified in the released statement, it is expected that any sentence imposed will be less than the maximum allowed by law.
Assistant United States Attorney Carol M. Skutnik is prosecuting the case. This investigation highlights the ongoing efforts of federal law enforcement to combat the abhorrent crime of child exploitation and bring perpetrators to justice. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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