BUFFALO, NY – Brett Schultz, 39, of Buffalo, will spend the next seven years and three months in federal prison after being sentenced today for attempted receipt of child pornography. Senior U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny handed down the 87-month sentence, a grim reminder of the predators lurking in the digital shadows.
The case, spearheaded by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan P. Cantil, reveals a disturbing pattern of online grooming. Schultz initiated a conversation with someone he believed to be a 15-year-old high school girl. It wasn’t long before his intentions became clear, and the ‘girl’ revealed her true identity: an undercover law enforcement officer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations.
According to court documents, the exchange quickly devolved. Just moments into the chat, Schultz bluntly asked, “so how old are you really?” When the undercover officer responded, “I’m almost 16,” Schultz didn’t back down. Instead, he doubled down, immediately requesting sexually explicit images and pictures. The level of brazenness is chilling, a stark illustration of how quickly online interactions can turn predatory.
Schultz didn’t stop at requests for images. He attempted to arrange a meeting with the undercover officer, intending to further his illegal activities. It was at that point, as he attempted to solidify plans to meet a supposed minor, that law enforcement moved in to arrest him. The swift action prevented a potentially far more dangerous situation from unfolding.
Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly of Homeland Security Investigations oversaw the investigation, a testament to the agency’s commitment to protecting children from online exploitation. This case highlights the vital role undercover operations play in exposing and dismantling these networks of abuse. The investigation underscores the pervasive threat of online predators and the importance of constant vigilance.
U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. stated the sentence sends a clear message: attempting to exploit children, even online, will be met with the full force of the law. Schultz’s 87-month sentence is a harsh, but necessary, consequence for his actions. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing fight against child exploitation.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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