Michael Rios, Child Pornography, Oklahoma 2024

Grimy Times has learned that Michael Rios, a 43-year-old Oklahoma City man, has been sentenced to serve 40 years in federal prison for his role in possessing and distributing child pornography.

According to court documents, Rios was arrested on April 3, 2024, after an FBI agent accessed an online encrypted messaging service and discovered that Rios had shared child pornography between January 8 and 9, 2024. Further investigation led to the discovery of a large library of child pornography on Rios’ digital devices.

Rios was already out on bond pending trial in Oklahoma County District Court, where he was charged with manufacturing child porn and possession of obscene material involving the participation of a minor under the age of 18 in case number CF-2022-5095. Rios was accused of recording a minor, without their knowledge, while the minor showered in the bathroom of his home in 2019.

On June 3, 2024, Rios pleaded guilty to Counts 2 & 3 of the Indictment and admitted he possessed and distributed child pornography.

US District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced Rios to serve 40 years in federal prison, followed by supervised release for life. Judge Jones noted the disturbing and demented nature of Rios’ conduct and the danger he presented to the public.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Rios will serve his sentence in a federal prison, and his supervised release will last for life.

The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office and the Oklahoma City Police Department led the investigation into Rios’ crimes. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon prosecuted the case.

Rios’ case highlights the importance of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The public is reminded that child pornography is a serious crime with severe consequences.

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