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- calendar_today October 13, 2026
Federal Sentencing for Child Sexual Abuse Material Distribution
A 30-year-old Indianapolis man, Andrew Scott Whitaker, Jr., has received a significant federal sentence after pleading guilty to distributing and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the social media platform Kik. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana announced the sentencing on October 13, 2026.
Details of the Offense and Sentencing
Whitaker was sentenced to 19.5 years in federal prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release. In addition to the prison term, the court ordered Whitaker to pay a total of $47,500 in restitution to 15 victims identified in the case.
History of CSAM Possession and Distribution
According to federal prosecutors, Whitaker had previously been convicted in federal court for possession of and access with intent to view CSAM. Despite being under federal supervised release from his 2021 conviction, Whitaker distributed and possessed additional illicit materials. In late December 2024, he sent multiple videos and images containing CSAM to several individuals on Kik, a popular social media messaging application.
Law Enforcement Investigation and Evidence
Federal officials searched Whitaker’s home in March 2025. During the search, investigators discovered a cell phone containing over 2,200 CSAM images and more than 1,100 CSAM videos. The ongoing investigation and evidence gathering were conducted while Whitaker was still under supervision for his previous conviction.
Official Statements and Commitment to Prosecution
Tom Wheeler, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, emphasized the severity of the crime, stating, “This dangerous offender exploited a social media platform to circulate the horrific abuse of the most vulnerable among us, all while already on federal supervised release for the same reprehensible conduct.” Wheeler further underscored that individuals engaging in online exploitation will be held accountable.
Special Agent in Charge Ike Barnes of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office highlighted the impacts of CSAM crimes: “Distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material is a serious crime that causes significant pain and trauma to victims, families and the community, and it carries significant penalties, as this case demonstrates.” Barnes reaffirmed the Secret Service’s dedication to pursuing and prosecuting offenders who engage in online exploitation of children.
Case Highlights Federal Focus on Online Exploitation
This case underscores ongoing efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Secret Service to address child exploitation and social media crime. The federal sentencing and imposed victim restitution reflect the legal system’s approach to combating the distribution and possession of illicit content online and providing restitution for victims.
Source: fox59.com.
