Robert Glapinski, Child Pornography, Michigan 2026

DETROIT – A family medicine doctor from Capac, Michigan, has been handed a 15-year federal prison sentence for a sickening trove of child pornography, authorities announced yesterday. Robert Glapinski, 62, pleaded guilty to distributing thousands of images depicting the sexual abuse of children, some prepubescent in age.

The case unraveled after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children flagged a cybertip from Google on March 5, 2025. The tip indicated a user was sharing child pornography through Google Chat. Investigators quickly zeroed in on Glapinski, who, disturbingly, was actively practicing medicine – treating both adults and children – while engaging in this depraved activity. Court records show Glapinski didn't just possess the material; he openly discussed sexually abusing female children and sharing the illicit images in online chats.

On April 8, 2025, a federal search warrant was executed at Glapinski’s residence by agents from the United States Secret Service and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Glapinski readily admitted to viewing, receiving, and possessing the horrific material. A forensic examination of his electronic devices revealed a staggering collection: over 2,500 images and more than 150 videos of child sexual abuse.

“The sexual abuse of children is among the most heinous types of crimes imaginable,” stated United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. “But when such a terrible crime is committed by a physician – a person who has taken an oath to do no harm – the punishment must be severe.” Judge Linda V. Parker handed down the 15-year sentence in Detroit federal court.

Special Agent in Charge William J. Shink of the U.S. Secret Service emphasized the collaborative effort that brought Glapinski to justice. “This case highlights the effective partnership between the Secret Service, Michigan State Police and U.S. Attorney’s Office, to combat the online exploitation of children, through investigating and prosecuting those who perpetuate the victimization of minors by receiving, possessing, and distributing such heinous material.”

The investigation was led by special agents of the United States Secret Service and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Tara Hindelang prosecuted the case. The case serves as a grim reminder of the dark underbelly of the internet and the constant vigilance required to protect vulnerable children from predators hiding in plain sight.

Source: https://www.secretservice.gov/newsroom/releases/2026/03/physician-sentenced-15-years-federal-prison-possessing-and-distributing