Adam L. Power, a 29-year-old resident of Petersburg, Illinois, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of producing, distributing, and receiving child pornography. According to court documents, Power allegedly engaged in a disturbing scheme, posing as a minor female online to solicit sexually explicit images and videos from underage males.
Authorities state that Power not only received these illicit materials but also shared them with others. His arrest on March 21, 2023, initially led to charges of possession of child pornography by the Menard County State's Attorney. However, on June 30, 2023, he was apprehended by Department of Homeland Security Agents on a federal warrant, leading to the subsequent indictment.
If convicted, Power could face a statutory penalty ranging from five to thirty years' imprisonment for offenses including sexual exploitation of a minor, receipt, and distribution of child pornography. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the Illinois State Police, participated in the investigation.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative led by the Department of Justice, aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. The public is reminded that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and anyone with information related to potential victims is urged to contact Springfield Homeland Security Investigations.