Pawtucket Child Porn Distributor Sentenced To 15 Years In Federal Prison

PROVIDENCE, RI — A Pawtucket child pornography distributor was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.

Gary Ethier, 60, had pleaded guilty in December to the distribution and possession of child pornography.

Ethier's 15-year prison sentence will be followed by 10 years parole, according to a media release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.

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“Individuals who distribute child sexual abuse material play a direct role in the ongoing abuse and exploitation of children,” U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda said in the release.

“This 15-year sentence reflects the seriousness of these crimes and sends a clear message that these offenses will be aggressively investigated and prosecuted,” Calenda said.

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The Homeland Security Investigations Cyber Crimes Center received a tip in November 2024 that "Ethier was discussing the sexual exploitation of minor children with another individual online," according to the release.

"Ethier also sent the individual multiple images of child pornography," the release said.

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Then in December 2024, agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the Rhode Island Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force searched Ethier's home, according to the release.

"As a result of the search, law enforcement located more than 600 images depicting child pornography on Ethier’s electronic devices," the release said.

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“This case emerged as a cyber lead from the depths of the internet and uncovered a dangerous and depraved individual living right here in Rhode Island," Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol said in the release.

"After a meticulous investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and our partners at the Rhode Island State Police, Gary Ethier is now facing a lengthy federal sentence,” Krol said . “We remain committed to protecting children and holding predators like Ethier accountable for their crimes.”

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