TULSA, OK – James Wesley Barnes, 71, of Tulsa, is facing a lengthy stretch behind bars after being sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for possessing child pornography. The sentence, handed down today by U.S. District Judge Claire V. Eagan, closes a disturbing case involving the exploitation of an eleven-year-old girl.
According to court documents, Barnes actively solicited sexually explicit images from the young victim via cell phone between March and June of 2018. U.S. Attorney Trent Shores didn’t mince words, calling Barnes’ actions “perverse and deviant” and stating the crimes “are deserving of every day of his 15-year prison sentence.” Shores also highlighted the courage of the victim, noting the lasting trauma such abuse can inflict.
This wasn’t Barnes’ first brush with the law. Records show he was previously convicted in Tulsa County District Court for second-degree rape of a minor under 16 years of age. The repeat offense clearly weighed heavily on Judge Eagan’s decision. Following his prison term, Barnes will be subject to seven years of supervised release, with strict limitations designed to prevent further contact with children.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Tulsa Police Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni leading the prosecution. Barnes is currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service and will be transferred to a Bureau of Prisons facility to begin serving his sentence. The case underscores the ongoing threat of online predators and the importance of vigilance.
This prosecution was part of Project Safe Childhood, a national initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project brings together federal, state, and local resources to identify, apprehend, and prosecute offenders. The initiative also focuses on rescuing victims and providing them with the support they need.
“Because of one child’s courage and resiliency, this vile predator is going to federal prison for a long time,” Shores stated. Those seeking more information about Project Safe Childhood can visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the pursuit of justice for vulnerable victims.
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Key Facts
- State: Oklahoma
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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