Devin Lee Peterson of Wasilla is facing federal charges after being indicted on counts of producing and possessing child pornography, marking another grim case in Alaska’s ongoing battle against sexual exploitation of minors.
The indictment, handed down by a federal grand jury in Anchorage, accuses Peterson of producing a video on July 22, 2016, showing a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct—charged under Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a). Just months later, on December 6, 2016, he allegedly possessed additional images of minors in similar conduct, violating Section 2252(a)(4)(B).
U.S. Attorney Karen L. Loeffler confirmed the charges, underscoring the severity of the offenses. Federal law mandates a minimum of 15 years in prison for production of child pornography, with a maximum of 30 years behind bars. Possession carries up to 10 years in prison. Both charges expose Peterson to fines up to $250,000 and supervised release terms of five years to life upon release.
The investigation was led by the Alaska State Troopers (AST), with critical support from the FBI. Authorities have not released details about the victims or the digital evidence recovered, citing the sensitive nature of the case and the need to protect minors involved.
This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, a DOJ initiative launched in 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation. The program unites federal, state, and local agencies to track down offenders, rescue victims, and strengthen prosecutions across the country. More information is available at www.usdoj.gov/psc.
It bears emphasis: an indictment is not a conviction. Devin Lee Peterson is presumed innocent until proven guilty. A trial will be scheduled in federal court, where prosecutors must prove each charge beyond a reasonable doubt. The court will determine any sentence, guided by statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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Key Facts
- State: Alaska
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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