Ayden Burge, a 22-year-old resident of Saginaw, has been sentenced to over 17 years in federal prison for distributing child pornography. This announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck. The sentence follows Burge's guilty plea to the charge and includes an additional five years of federal supervised release post-incarceration.
The sentencing was delivered by United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Ludington. The investigation that led to Burge's arrest began in 2023 during a narcotics operation conducted by the Michigan State Police Huron Undercover Narcotics Team. During this operation, electronic devices belonging to Burge were seized and analyzed by the Michigan State Police Computer Crimes Unit. The analysis revealed conversations on the messaging app Kik where Burge expressed intentions to sexually assault minors and distributed child sexual abuse material.
Acting U.S. Attorney Beck emphasized the importance of protecting children from predators, stating: “Distributing child pornography victimizes the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community - children.” She further noted that a lengthy sentence is essential for safeguarding both the community and children.
Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, described the sentencing as "a significant victory" against those who exploit children, ensuring that Burge will not harm more children for an extended period. Gibson acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various agencies involved in bringing Burge to justice.
The case was jointly investigated by the Michigan State Police, its Computer Crimes Unit, and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Katharine Hemann.