ERIE, PA — Matthew James Chantelois, a 45-year-old resident of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie, Pennsylvania, on charges related to the alleged sexual exploitation of children.
United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced the indictment on Friday. Chantelois is the sole defendant named in the three-count indictment.
The indictment alleges that from around October 2023 to January 2024, Chantelois used, persuaded, induced, and enticed a minor into engaging in sexually explicit conduct with the intention of producing a visual depiction of that conduct. Furthermore, Chantelois is charged with the possession and transportation of child sexual abuse material across state lines.
If convicted, Chantelois faces a maximum total sentence of not less than 15 years and up to 60 years in prison, a fine of up to $750,000, or both. The actual sentence would be determined based on the seriousness of the offenses and any prior criminal history of the defendant, as per the federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting the case for the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania State Police, New York State Police, and Dearborn Heights Police Department jointly conducted the investigation leading to the indictment.
As this case continues, it’s important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
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