John C. Aldrich, IV, a 54-year-old resident of Palmyra, New York, has pleaded guilty to the production of child pornography. The plea was entered before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford in Rochester, as announced by U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. This charge carries a potential sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi detailed that the investigation into Aldrich began in March 2024 after authorities received information regarding his involvement in the physical and sexual abuse of a minor in Palmyra. Evidence gathered included messages between Aldrich and the victim that confirmed a pattern of weekly abuse over more than a year, starting when the victim was 14 years old.
The investigation leading to this plea was conducted by the New York State Police in Lyons, under Acting Major Kevin Sucher, along with Homeland Security Investigations led by Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
Aldrich's sentencing is set for March 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., presided over by Judge Wolford.