Patrick Joseph Friedel, Child Pornography, Virginia 2015

Arlington man sentenced to up to 30 years in prison for producing and possessing child pornography.

Alexandria, Va. – In a shocking turn of events, Patrick Joseph Friedel, 29, of Arlington, Virginia, has pleaded guilty to production and possession of child pornography. The devastating crime was uncovered through a thorough investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Fairfax County Police Department, with the assistance of the Northern Virginia/DC Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

According to the plea agreement, Friedel met five underage teenagers over the Internet and exchanged sexually explicit images with them. He used persuasion, including sending depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, and coercion, including threats to post images online and tell parents. On three occasions, Friedel picked up one of the minors and engaged in sexual activity with her, taking pictures and videos of the activity, which included sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.

The case against Friedel is a stark reminder of the dangers of online predators and the importance of vigilance in protecting our children. The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison when he is sentenced on April 24, 2015.

Friedel’s sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This case serves as a warning to those who engage in such heinous crimes, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring them to justice.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, along with Homeland Security Investigations and the Fairfax County Police Department, will continue to work together to protect our communities and bring those who commit such crimes to justice.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:14-cr-383.

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