Ronald Rhodes, Distribution of Child Porn, Pennsylvania 2014

In a shocking revelation, Uniontown resident Ronald Rhodes pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of distribution of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. The case was brought to light through the nationwide initiative, Project Safe Childhood, launched by the federal government in 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.

According to the investigation, on or about April 3, 2014, Rhodes distributed a video containing material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. The video was distributed through unknown means, but the exact details of the distribution are still unclear.

Rhodes pleaded guilty to one count before Chief United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Lieber Smolar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 30 years in prison, a fine of $500,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Rhodes. The case is a stark reminder of the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, and the need for continued efforts to combat this heinous crime.

Chief Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for Oct. 14, 2015, at 3:30 p.m. The outcome of the sentencing will depend on various factors, including the seriousness of the offense and Rhodes’ prior criminal history. The community is eagerly awaiting the outcome of this case and the justice it will bring to the victims and their families.

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