A Michigan man was charged with Interstate Sexual Exploitation of Children in Pennsylvania this year.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, New York State Police, and Dearborn Heights Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the indictment.
MATTHEW JAMES CHANTELIOIS, 45, of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, was named as the sole defendant in a three-count indictment.
According to the indictment, from in and around October 2023 to in and around January 2024, Chantelois allegedly used, persuaded, induced, and enticed a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct.
The indictment also charges Chantelois with possessing and transporting child sexual abuse material in interstate commerce.
Under federal law, Chantelois could face a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 60 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both. The actual sentence would be based on the seriousness of the offenses and the defendant’s prior criminal history, if any.
Chantelois is currently facing federal charges and has not yet entered a plea. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold on behalf of the government.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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