Colorado man Michael Bruce Shaw was arrested at his home on March 25th. Investigators compiled enough evidence to warrant a search of his home to confirm or clear their suspicion that Shaw was involved in the Internet sex crime of downloading and distributing child pornography. The search and arrest were initiated after the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force noticed that illegal pornographic files were consistently being trafficked to and from Shaw’s address.
Authorities confiscated Shaw’s computer upon his arrest and investigated the content within it. According to reports, investigators discovered more than 50 incriminating pornographic files involving subjects under 18.
Shaw was charged with exploitation of a child, sexual exploitation and distribution. All are felony charges. Last Thursday, June 10, per the advice of his Colorado criminal defense attorney, Shaw agreed to a plea deal and pleaded guilty to only one of the charges: sexual exploitation of a child.
Because this is Shaw’s first criminal offense on record, it is possible that the court will be less severe in his sentencing. He could be sentenced to a maximum of 3 years in prison if the judge feels he deserves that harsh sentencing option. The judge could also decide that Shaw’s lack of a criminal record makes jail time inappropriate and then sentence Shaw to mere probation. The duration of probation depends on the judge’s opinion of the severity of Shaw’s crime and his potential danger to society. Minimally, however, Shaw would have to serve 5 years of probation.
Resource
Glenwood Spring man pleads guilty to possession of child pornography