Internet users need to be aware of the dangers faced if they possess or transmit child pornography. If someone finds child pornography, they should avoid it and contact authorities. When one considers the harm caused to children victimized by child pornography and the severe criminal penalties for child pornography crimes, it is clear that the right thing and the smart thing to do is to avoid any involvement with any form of such pornography.

Internet sharing of child pornography is receiving the attention of federal prosecutors across the country. Indeed, Congress passed federal legislation last year that dramatically increased the penalties attached to child pornography crimes stating that “we must ensure that … punishment is severe, and that sexual predators are not allowed to slip through the cracks and harm other children.”

All too often college campuses have found themselves to be the scene of child pornography offenses. In the last two years, six ISU students have been arrested on charges relating to child pornography. Arrests have also taken place on the campuses of Yale, Wake Forest and Purdue.

Distributing or trading child pornography leads to a minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without the possibility of parole. After serving their time, those convicted of child pornography offenses — including those convicted of simple possession — must register as sex offenders for the rest of their lives.

Charles W. Larson, Sr.

United States Attorney

Northern District of Iowa

Stephen Patrick O’Meara

United States Attorney

Southern District of Iowa