Rothrock Gets 20 Years for Sickening Abuse

HARRISBURG, PA – Brendon Rothrock, a 23-year-old Huntingdon resident, will spend the next two decades behind bars after being sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for receiving and actively encouraging the sexual abuse of a child. U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson handed down the sentence on November 24, 2021, a punishment that barely scratches the surface of the depravity of Rothrock’s actions.

According to federal prosecutors, the nightmare began in February 2018 when Rothrock engaged in disturbing communications with an accomplice via the Kik Messenger app. These weren’t idle chats; Rothrock didn’t just view exploitation – he incited it. He actively encouraged the other individual to sexually assault an 18-month-old girl, a defenseless victim whose innocence was shattered by Rothrock’s twisted desires. The accomplice, sickeningly, complied.

But it didn’t stop there. At Rothrock’s explicit request, the accomplice sent him images documenting the horrific assault. This wasn’t a case of simply possessing illegal material; Rothrock actively solicited and received evidence of a brutal crime. Further investigation revealed hundreds of additional images of child pornography on Rothrock’s devices, painting a clear picture of a deeply disturbed individual with a predatory obsession.

The investigation, spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, meticulously pieced together the digital trail of Rothrock’s depravity. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carlo D. Marchioli and James T. Clancy built an airtight case, presenting the evidence that led to Rothrock’s conviction and subsequent sentencing. The 20-year prison term is a significant blow to Rothrock, but it won’t erase the harm he inflicted.

This case was brought under the umbrella of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative launched in 2006 to combat the escalating epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project, a collaborative effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement, focuses on identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting perpetrators like Rothrock, while simultaneously working to rescue and support victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc.

Following his imprisonment, Rothrock will also be subject to a 15-year term of supervised release. While this offers a measure of continued monitoring, it’s a cold comfort to those who understand the lasting trauma inflicted upon the victim. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on efforts to protect vulnerable children from predators like Brendon Rothrock. For internet safety education resources, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.