The Attorney General's Office has announced the arraignment of Joshua Pierce, a 34-year-old resident of Northfield, Vermont. Pierce faces seven felony charges for possession of child sexual abuse materials. The charges stem from an investigation by the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (VT-ICAC), which included personnel from multiple agencies such as Homeland Security Investigations and local police departments.
The investigation began following two CyberTipline reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). These reports were initiated by Kik, a smartphone messenger application, after images of child sexual abuse materials were uploaded to its servers. The investigation identified Pierce as the owner of the account responsible for uploading these images. A search warrant executed at his residence confirmed his possession of such materials.
Pierce pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in Vermont Superior Court, Washington Unit, Criminal Division. Judge Michael Harris imposed conditions restricting Pierce's access to minors, electronic devices, and the internet.
VT-ICAC focuses on cases involving child sexual exploitation over the internet. They offer forensic examination services and provide law enforcement training along with public education initiatives.
NCMEC serves as a centralized reporting system for online child exploitation incidents. Reports can be made through their 24-hour call center or online platform. They also offer support services for those recovering from child sexual exploitation.