A Nye County resident, David Michael Burak, has been sentenced to 108 months in prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release for distributing and receiving more than 250,000 images depicting the sexual abuse of children. The sentencing was carried out by United States District Judge James C. Mahan. Burak pleaded guilty to the charges on February 24, 2023. The investigation was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, who discovered that Burak was distributing the illegal material on a peer-to-peer file sharing network. The search warrant executed on Burak’s residence revealed that he also operated a daycare business catering to pre-school age children. Multiple digital devices containing the illicit material were seized during the investigation. The case was brought forth as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child exploitation and abuse.
Nye County Resident Sentenced for Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material
Background
In a recent case in Nye County, a resident was sentenced for the distribution and receipt of more than 250,000 images of child sexual abuse material. The resident, David Michael Burak, pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release.
Sentencing Details
David Michael Burak was sentenced to 108 months in prison by United States District Judge James C. Mahan. In addition to the prison sentence, Burak will also serve a lifetime term of supervised release. These sentencing details reflect the seriousness of the offense and the harm caused by the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Plea of Guilty
Burak pleaded guilty to distribution or receipt of child pornography on February 24, 2023. His guilty plea acknowledged his involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material, which is a serious crime with severe consequences.
Investigation Details
The investigation into Burak’s criminal activities was conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This task force focuses on combating the sharing of child sexual abuse material online, which is a significant and growing problem in today’s digital age. The task force identified Burak as a participant in the distribution of such material.
Search Warrant Execution
On July 19, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant on Burak’s residence in Pahrump. During the search, it was discovered that part of the residence was used for a daycare business catering to preschool-age children. The execution of the search warrant allowed law enforcement to collect crucial evidence regarding Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Seizure of Digital Devices
During the search of Burak’s residence, investigators seized multiple digital devices. These devices were later found to contain more than 250,000 files of child sexual abuse material. The seizure of these devices provided further evidence of Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of such material.
Forensic Findings
Forensic analysis of the seized digital devices confirmed that Burak had used these devices to receive and make available for download files of child sexual abuse material on the internet. This evidence further solidified the case against Burak and supported the charges brought against him.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
The investigation and prosecution of Burak involved several law enforcement agencies, including the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. These agencies worked together to ensure that Burak was held accountable for his crimes and to protect potential victims.
Project Safe Childhood Initiative
This case was brought as part of the Project Safe Childhood initiative, which is a nationwide effort to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative, launched by the Department of Justice in 2006, aims to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet. It also focuses on identifying and rescuing victims of child sexual abuse.
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children plays a crucial role in combating child sexual exploitation. The center provides resources and support for investigating and preventing crimes against children. Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the center at 1-800-THE-LOST or through their online reporting system, Cybertipline.
Background
Nature of the Crime
The crime committed by Burak involved the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material. This form of criminal activity contributes to the continued victimization of children and perpetuates their abuse.
Distribution and Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse Material
Burak was involved in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material. This type of material includes explicit images and videos that depict the sexual abuse of children. The distribution and receipt of such material contribute to the cycle of abuse and harm inflicted upon vulnerable victims.
Online Peer-to-peer File Sharing Network
Burak utilized an online peer-to-peer file sharing network to distribute and receive child sexual abuse material. These networks allow users to share files directly with other users, often anonymously. The use of such networks poses challenges for law enforcement in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Extent of the Abuse Material
The extent of the abuse material involved in this case was significant. Over 250,000 images depicting the sexual abuse of children were found on Burak’s digital devices. This vast quantity of material reflects the magnitude of the crime and the harm inflicted on countless victims.
Age Range of the Victims
The victims depicted in the abuse material ranged in age from infants to older children. The exploitation of children of such young ages is particularly concerning and highlights the vulnerability of these victims.
Sentencing Details
Duration of the Prison Sentence
David Michael Burak was sentenced to 108 months in prison for his involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material. This lengthy prison sentence reflects the seriousness of the offense and the harm caused by Burak’s actions.
Lifetime Term of Supervised Release
In addition to the prison sentence, Burak will also serve a lifetime term of supervised release. This means that even after he is released from prison, he will be closely monitored and subject to certain restrictions to ensure the safety of the community and prevent further exploitation of children.
Plea of Guilty
Date of Plea
David Michael Burak pleaded guilty to distribution or receipt of child pornography on February 24, 2023. His guilty plea indicates his acknowledgment of the crimes committed and his willingness to be held accountable for his actions.
Guilty Plea to Distribution or Receipt of Child Pornography
Burak’s guilty plea specifically pertains to the charges of distribution or receipt of child pornography. This plea acknowledges his involvement in the distribution and receipt of explicit material depicting the sexual abuse of children.
Investigation Details
Involvement of Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force
The investigation into Burak’s criminal activities was led by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This task force is dedicated to combating crimes against children, particularly those involving the sexual abuse and exploitation of minors. Their expertise and resources were crucial in uncovering Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Focus on Sharing of Child Sexual Abuse Material
The investigation focused on the sharing of child sexual abuse material on a peer-to-peer file sharing network. By targeting individuals involved in the distribution and receipt of such material, law enforcement aims to disrupt the networks that facilitate the exploitation of children.
Observations of Device Distribution
During the course of the investigation, it was observed that one of Burak’s devices was distributing files depicting child sexual abuse material. This observation provided crucial evidence and led to the execution of a search warrant on Burak’s residence.
Importance of Peer-to-peer File Sharing Network
The use of a peer-to-peer file sharing network was significant in this case. Such networks allow for the direct sharing of files between users, making it easier for individuals to distribute and receive child sexual abuse material anonymously. The investigation targeted Burak’s involvement in this particular network, exposing his criminal activities.
Identification of David Michael Burak
Through their investigation, law enforcement was able to identify David Michael Burak as an individual involved in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material. This identification allowed for the subsequent search warrant execution and seizure of digital devices.
Search Warrant Execution
Date of Search Warrant Execution
On July 19, 2022, investigators executed a search warrant on David Michael Burak’s residence in Pahrump. This search warrant allowed law enforcement to gather evidence related to Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Search of Burak’s Residence in Pahrump
During the search of Burak’s residence, law enforcement officers meticulously searched the premises for evidence. Part of the residence was used for a daycare business catering to preschool-age children, which added to the gravity of the situation. The search aimed to uncover evidence supporting the charges brought against Burak and expose the extent of his criminal activities.
Daycare Business at the Residence
One aspect that emerged during the search of Burak’s residence was the presence of a daycare business catering to preschool-age children. The fact that Burak was engaged in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material while operating a daycare business highlights the potential danger posed to the vulnerable children under his care.
Seizure of Digital Devices
Number of Digital Devices Seized
During the search of Burak’s residence, law enforcement officers seized multiple digital devices. These devices, which belonged to Burak, were suspected to contain evidence of his involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Discovery of Child Sexual Abuse Material Files
Upon further examination of the seized digital devices, investigators discovered that they contained more than 250,000 files of child sexual abuse material. This discovery provided overwhelming evidence of Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of such material.
Quantity of Files Seized
The sheer quantity of files seized from Burak’s digital devices is staggering. With over 250,000 images depicting the sexual abuse of children, this evidence highlights the extent of Burak’s involvement in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Forensic Findings
Confirmation of Burak’s Use of the Digital Devices
Forensic analysis of the seized digital devices confirmed that David Michael Burak had used these devices. This confirmation establishes a direct link between Burak and the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Receiving and Availability of Abuse Material
Forensic findings also revealed that Burak used the digital devices to receive and make available for download files of child sexual abuse material. This evidence further supports the charges brought against Burak and demonstrates his active participation in the distribution and receipt of such material.
Online Activities Involving Child Sexual Exploitation
The forensic examination of Burak’s digital devices provided insight into his online activities involving child sexual exploitation. The evidence collected during the forensic analysis further substantiated the charges against Burak and highlighted the extent of his involvement in this heinous crime.
Law Enforcement Agencies Involved
United States Attorney’s Office, District of Nevada
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada played a crucial role in the investigation and prosecution of David Michael Burak. They worked tirelessly to ensure that justice was served and that Burak was held accountable for his crimes.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
The FBI, as a federal law enforcement agency, was instrumental in investigating the case against Burak. Their expertise and resources contributed to the successful prosecution of Burak and the dismantling of the network involved in the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department collaborated with other law enforcement agencies to bring Burak to justice. Their commitment to protecting the community and ensuring the safety of potential victims is commendable.
Project Safe Childhood Initiative
Reporting Suspected Child Sexual Exploitation
The Project Safe Childhood initiative aims to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse by marshaling federal, state, and local resources. As part of this initiative, individuals are encouraged to report suspected child sexual exploitation to law enforcement agencies. Prompt reporting is crucial in preventing further harm and holding offenders accountable for their actions.
Contact Information
To report suspected child sexual exploitation, individuals can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). This hotline provides immediate assistance and guidance for those who suspect or encounter child sexual exploitation.
Cybertipline for Online Reporting
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children also offers an online reporting system called Cybertipline. This system allows individuals to report suspected instances of child sexual exploitation directly through their website. Online reporting is a convenient and effective way to provide invaluable information to law enforcement agencies.
In conclusion, the sentencing of a Nye County resident for the distribution and receipt of child sexual abuse material highlights the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combating this heinous crime. Through the diligent investigation and prosecution of individuals involved in the distribution and receipt of such material, law enforcement strives to protect vulnerable children and prevent further harm. The Project Safe Childhood initiative and the resources provided by organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children play a vital role in these efforts. It is essential for everyone to be vigilant and report suspected instances of child sexual exploitation to ensure the safety and well-being of children in our society.