LYNNWOOD, WA – Thomas Joseph Barrett, 49, a Senior Case Technician with the Social Security Office of Disability Adjudication and Review, is facing federal charges after being caught accessing child pornography. Barrett was taken into custody at his workplace today, following an investigation sparked by suspicious internet activity.
U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced the criminal complaint, detailing how the Social Security Administration (SSA) flagged inappropriate internet use by Barrett during work hours back in November 2012. The SSA immediately launched an internal investigation, quickly escalating the matter to the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General (SSA-OIG). Their forensic analysis of Barrett’s computer revealed a disturbing pattern of viewing child pornography.
Investigators didn’t just find the illegal content; they discovered Barrett had also been researching the penalties associated with possessing and distributing it – a chilling detail suggesting awareness of his criminal behavior. Thankfully, SSA officials confirm their network and data remained secure throughout the ordeal. Barrett has been placed on indefinite leave by the SSA.
The complaint alleges Barrett knowingly accessed child pornography with the intent to view it. If convicted, he faces a hefty penalty: up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. This isn’t just a career-ending move; it’s a life-altering accusation.
Barrett is scheduled to make his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:30 PM today. It’s crucial to remember these are allegations at this stage. As with all criminal cases, Barrett is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation is a joint effort led by the SSA-OIG, Homeland Security Investigation, and the Washington State Patrol. The prosecution will be handled by Special Assistant United States Attorney Seth Wilkinson – an attorney specially designated from the SSA – and Assistant United States Attorney Marci Ellsworth. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and bring you updates as they develop.
Related Federal Cases
- Arlington Man Pleads Guilty to Downloading 83K Child Porn Images · Washington
- Alfredo Mendoza Gets 15 Years for Child Porn, Gun Crimes · Washington
- Lucas Aronson Gets 17 Years for Child Porn Production · Washington
- Tristan Shaw Sentenced to 5 Years for Child Porn Charges · Washington
- Hugh Allen Russell Gets 15 Years for Child Porn Receipt · Washington
Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
