HARRISBURG – A chilling case of child pornography has gripped Perry County as a husband and wife duo are facing federal charges. Betty Jo Eckenberger, 32, and James David Eckenberger, 43, both residents of Perry County, were indicted on April 19, 2017, by a federal grand jury for producing child pornography.
The couple is accused of sexually assaulting a minor between 2008 and 2011 and photographing the act. They now stand charged with conspiracy to use a minor in producing child porn, actual production, receipt and distribution of such material, and possession of child pornography. The indictment demands forfeiture of all electronic devices used in capturing the illegal images.
Both Eckenbergers were detained following arraignment by Chief Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab. Assistant United States Attorney James T. Clancy is handling the case with the support of the Pennsylvania State Police and the FBI.
This harrowing incident is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide effort launched by the Department of Justice in 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The campaign has led to the apprehension and prosecution of numerous predators who prey on our youth.
Despite the gravity of their charges, the Eckenbergers are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Under federal law, those convicted of producing child pornography face up to 50 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years. Possession of such material carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 with a 10-year minimum term.
For more information on Project Safe Childhood and internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
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- Markley Admits Threatening Postal Inspector, Possessing Child Porn · Pennsylvania
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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