New Caney Man Charged With Producing, Sharing Child Porn

HOUSTON, TX — A New Caney man is facing federal child pornography charges after he was allegedly caught engaging in online chats claiming he was sexually active with a child under the age of 5.

Joshua James Holmstedt, 39, was arrested and charged with actively engaging in the sexual exploitation and sexual abuse of a minor female under the age of five, according to the charges.

He was taken into federal custody Tuesday and made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo at 10:00 a.m.

According to a Department of Justice press release, Holmstead had one-on-one conversations on social media platforms were discussions of sexual exploitation of children and pornography.

During these chat sessions, Holmstead allegedly claimed he was having sexual relations with a minor under five and that he also watched pornographic material with her.

Holmstead also allegedly shared videos and photos in the forum that showed the girl’s private parts, and videos that showed other small childen engaged in sex acts.

The FBI conducted this investigation with the Montgomery County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office

Holmstead is in federal custody and will have a detention hearing and probable cause hearing on Thursday.

If he is found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of 30 years and a fine of $250,000.

Image: Shutterstock

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