Rogelio Hernandez Rodriguez, Sexually Exploiting a Child, Oklahoma 2020

Rogelio Hernandez Rodriguez, 30, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, has been found guilty of sexually exploiting a child and possessing child pornography. A federal jury delivered the verdict on Thursday, marking a significant victory for law enforcement and the community.

The trial revealed that Rodriguez had induced the minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography. The victim was subjected to sexual abuse, which was captured on 524 sexually graphic images and videos stored on hard drives and multiple SD cards.

Prosecutors emphasized the severity of the crimes perpetrated against the victim, reminding the jury of the child’s suffering and the importance of holding Rodriguez accountable. They urged the jury to return a verdict of guilty, assuring the victim that what happened to them was illegal and wrong.

U.S. Attorney Trent Shores praised the efforts of investigators and prosecutors, stating, ‘Crimes against children are reprehensible. I know not what could bring an adult to sexually abuse a child to produce or consume child pornography. But I do know there is something that U.S. Attorneys can and will do about it.’

Shores reiterated the commitment of U.S. Attorneys to identify and prosecute child predators to the fullest extent of the law. The Wagoner Police Department and FBI worked together to investigate the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shannon Cozzoni, Reagan V. Reininger, and Dennis A. Fries are prosecuting the case.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell presided over the trial and set sentencing for January 30, 2020. Rodriguez faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release for the sexual exploitation of a child. He further faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release for possession of child pornography.

The verdict brings relief to the community and serves as a reminder that child predators will be held accountable for their heinous crimes. The case showcases the dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors in protecting vulnerable victims and ensuring justice is served.

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