Virginia Man Charged with Production of Child Pornography

A disturbing case of child exploitation has rocked the community of Newport News, Virginia. Larry Dean Drommerhausen, 53, the owner of Independent Systems, a local business that installs video surveillance equipment, has been arrested and charged with production of child pornography.

According to court documents and proceedings, Drommerhausen came to the attention of the FBI after numerous files containing child pornography were downloaded from his computer. On April 4, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his home, seizing numerous electronic devices.

During a subsequent interview, Drommerhausen revealed that he owns a business that installs regular and hidden cameras and had seen child pornography on hidden camera forums online. Furthermore, he stated that he has adopted a child and has been a foster parent for numerous children who have been physically or sexually abused.

The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office is now seeking the public’s help in identifying any additional potential victims. Individuals with information regarding this case are urged to contact the FBI at (757) 609-2398.

Drommerhausen faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, if convicted. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente, along with FBI Special Agent John S. Adams, made the announcement after Drommerhausen’s detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lisa R. McKeel and Megan M. Cowles are prosecuting the case.

A copy of this press release can be found on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are available on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:16-mj-78.