A man from Paxton, Massachusetts, Barry Ward, 32, has been arrested on charges related to the reproduction of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Authorities detained Ward following his arrest on February 14, 2025. He made an initial appearance in federal court in Worcester and remains detained pending a further hearing scheduled for today at 2 p.m.
The charging document states that in October 2024, Ward was identified as a participant in a Kik Messenger group used for sharing and discussing incestuous activities involving minors. Allegedly, he communicated with undercover law enforcement officers about managing a "private group" where discussions centered around the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. His arrest followed a search conducted at his residence.
Authorities encourage anyone with information or concerns regarding this case to contact them at 617-748-3274.
The charge against Ward carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and could lead to up to 20 years in prison. Additional penalties include supervised release ranging from five years to life and fines up to $250,000. Sentencing decisions are made by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable statutes.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the case alongside Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division, and Paxton Police Chief Mark Savasta. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett from the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
This investigation forms part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to address child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. The program involves collaboration among federal, state, and local resources aimed at apprehending offenders and rescuing victims.
The allegations detailed in the charging documents remain unproven until adjudicated beyond reasonable doubt in court.