Somerset County Man Sentenced to 11+ Years in Prison for Violating Federal Child Exploitation and Firearms Laws

United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on William M. Jones, 51, of Stoystown, Pa.

According to information presented to the court, on September 18, 2019, Jones knowingly possessed pictures and videos in individual computer graphic files which were produced using prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Further, Jones was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition. In 2003, Jones was convicted in Howard County, Indiana, of child molestation, which is a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits persons who have been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year from possessing firearms.

Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Mr. Brady commended the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement/Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Jones.