The Attorney General’s Office has announced the arraignment of Joseph Weintraub, a 69-year-old resident of Enosburgh, Vermont. Weintraub faces 10 felony counts for possession of child sexual abuse materials. These charges stem from an investigation by the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (VT-ICAC), which included contributions from the Attorney General’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and Vermont State Police.
The investigation was triggered by a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The tip was reported by Yahoo after images of child sexual abuse materials were uploaded to its servers. Further investigation identified Weintraub as the account owner responsible for uploading these images. A subsequent search of his residence confirmed that he possessed such materials.
During his arraignment in Vermont Superior Court, Franklin Unit, Criminal Division, Weintraub pleaded not guilty. Judge Allison Arms imposed conditions on his release, restricting his access to minors and the internet.
VT-ICAC is tasked with investigating cases involving online child sexual exploitation. This includes both production and distribution of child sexual abuse materials over the internet. The task force also provides forensic examination services, technical assistance, law enforcement training, and public education outreach.
The NCMEC serves as a centralized reporting system for online child exploitation cases in the United States. Reports can be made regarding suspected online enticement of children for sexual acts, molestation, sex tourism or trafficking involving children, among other offenses. To report such activities or seek support for recovery from child sexual exploitation, individuals can contact NCMEC through their 24-hour call center or website.