CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – In a shocking case of online exploitation, 36-year-old Matthew Liam Johnstone, an Irish national, has been extradited to the United States to face charges of coercion and enticement and sexual exploitation of a child.
According to the indictment, returned on August 6, 2025, Johnstone allegedly coerced a minor into filming and photographing herself engaging in sexually explicit conduct in September 2022. The disturbing allegations include elements of sadism and bestiality.
The FBI conducted a thorough investigation into the case, working closely with authorities in Ireland to secure Johnstone’s arrest and extradition. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs played a crucial role in bringing Johnstone to justice.
Johnstone is set to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby in Corpus Christi at 9:45 a.m. on an unspecified date. If convicted, he faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman and Trial Attorney Adam Braskich of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section will be prosecuting the case. This case 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.
As the investigation into Johnstone’s alleged crimes continues, authorities are warning parents and children about the dangers of online exploitation. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and education in preventing such crimes.
Related Federal Cases
- Todd Fleming, Child Exploitation, Texas 2007 · Michigan
- Charlotte Horelica, Sexual Exploitation of a Child and Distribution of Child Pornography, Texas 2023 · Texas
- Steven Anthony Jackson, Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Alabama 2022 · Connecticut
- William Michael Spearman, Child Exploitation Enterprise, Alabama 2023 · Alaska
- Shemar Cameron Green, Child Pornography, Texas 2023 · Arkansas
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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