A California university professor has been sentenced to over 18 years in prison for his heinous crimes against children. Rodger Githens, 48, of West Sacramento, was handed down a 222-month prison sentence and 10 years of supervised release for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and for distributing and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Githens was also ordered to pay a fine of $75,000, with restitution to be determined at a later date.
This disturbing case began in March 2023, when Githens initiated contact with a Grindr account controlled by an undercover agent. He quickly encouraged the agent to establish a Telegram account, which he considered more secure. Githens's twisted desires were revealed when he told the agent he had taboo thoughts every day and was into "babies." He even described in graphic detail what he would like to do with the undercover agent and the agent's fictional 7-year-old niece.
Githens's conversations with the undercover agent were filled with disturbing talk of meeting up and engaging in illicit activities with the fictional child. On April 19, 2023, law enforcement served a search warrant at Githens's residence and seized multiple electronic devices. Agents discovered numerous Telegram chats on Githens's phone, including several in which he discussed his twisted desires.
Githens's conviction came after a stipulated bench trial on May 1, 2026. His sentence is a testament to the dedication of law enforcement and the justice system in holding perpetrators of child exploitation accountable for their crimes. As Githens begins his lengthy prison sentence, the community can rest a little easier knowing that this predator is off the streets.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of online safety and the need for vigilance in protecting our children from predators like Githens. As the investigation continues, it's clear that Githens's actions have had a profound impact on the community, and his sentence is a small measure of justice for the victims of his crimes.
Source: Department of Justice