Pennsylvania Man Faces Federal Indictment Over Alleged Child Exploitation

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ERIE, PA — A Waterford, Pennsylvania resident has been indicted by a federal grand jury on allegations of child sexual exploitation, according to an announcement on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, by United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan.

Sean Eric Madigan, 44, is the sole defendant named in the two-count indictment. The charges stem from allegations that Madigan received and possessed images depicting prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

The indictment suggests that the alleged activities occurred in and around April 2023. Additionally, between September 2022 and May 2023, Madigan allegedly accessed material related to child sexual abuse with intent to view.

If convicted, Madigan could face severe penalties. Federal laws provide for a maximum total sentence of no less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. The actual sentence imposed, however, would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and any previous criminal history of the defendant.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to Madigan’s indictment.

While an indictment is a formal accusation, it’s crucial to remember that it is not proof of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. As such, Madigan maintains his presumption of innocence as his case progresses through the judicial system.

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