Substitute Teacher And Boy Scouts Camp Counselor Facing Child Pornography Charges

BOSTON – A substitute teacher was charged today with possessing child pornography.

Bryce Garner, 22, of East Sandwich, was charged in a criminal complaint with possession of child pornography. On June 20, 2013, Garner was arrested on these charges. Garner is currently employed at a hotel, but also works part-time as a substitute teacher, babysitter, and camp counselor.

According to court documents, undercover agents in Oklahoma City, OK learned that Garner was using the peer-to-peer file trading system, Limewire, to share child pornography. On June 20, 2013, agents executed a search warrant at Garners’ home. During the time of the search warrant, an unrelated 14-year-old boy that Garner had previously babysat was found visiting the home since earlier that week. Initially, Garner denied downloading the images, but after agents searched the computer, Garner admitted to possessing child pornography. Garner further admitted that he is attracted to young boys and has been for several years.

The statute provides for a maximum of 20 years in prison, to be followed by up to lifetime supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Richard DesLauriers, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacy Dawson Belf of Ortiz’s Major Crimes Unit.

Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274, and messages will be promptly returned.

The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

The details contained in the complaint affidavit are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.