U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit has announced the sentencing of two Idaho men to federal prison for separate sex crimes involving minor children. Daniel Wade Lowry, 34, from Notus, received a sentence of 19.5 years for sexual exploitation of a child. Sean Sterling, 28, from Nampa, was sentenced to 6.5 years for possession of child sexual abuse material.
In September 2023, law enforcement discovered Lowry's involvement in an online group sharing child sexual abuse material. A federal search warrant led to the seizure of his cellphones, revealing images and videos he had produced of a five-year-old child. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford ordered Lowry to serve 15 years of supervised release post-prison and pay restitution to victims while also registering as a sex offender.
Sterling's case began with CyberTip reports from Discord and Twitter leading to the discovery that his accounts were used to distribute child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement found further evidence on his devices after apprehending him in Las Vegas, Nevada. Judge Brailsford also mandated Sterling’s supervised release for 15 years following his sentence and required him to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit stated: “The production and endless distribution of child sexual abuse material can haunt victims for life.” He emphasized their commitment to justice for victims and accountability for offenders.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy remarked on the challenge of locating online predators but affirmed HSI's dedication alongside law enforcement partners in preventing such crimes against children.
Both cases involved Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Boise with assistance from various agencies including the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and local police departments.
These prosecutions are part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide.