Lucas Matthew Kramer, a former climbing coach from Duluth, Minnesota, has been sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for possession of child pornography. Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick announced the sentence and noted that Kramer is required to pay restitution to his victims and a $7,500 assessment under the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Assistance Act of 2018.
"Few crimes are as heinous as the sexual exploitation of minors," said Kirkpatrick. "My office will continue to prioritize charging predators who hold positions of trust in our community."
The investigation began on September 23, 2022, when law enforcement received a tip about an online user with the username “northernboy35” uploading child pornography through the Kik messenger app. Further investigation linked this activity to Lucas Matthew Kramer.
Special Agent Jamie Holt from ICE HSI Saint Paul stated that Kramer's sentencing concludes a successful investigation focused on those who exploit children. "HSI will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who target our young people," Holt said.
Law enforcement executed a search warrant at Kramer's residence and discovered over 600 images and videos of child sexual abuse material on multiple devices. Kramer admitted to downloading and trading these materials online.
Kramer pleaded guilty on October 11, 2024, and was sentenced by Judge Eric C. Tostrud on March 19, 2025. Judge Tostrud described Kramer's actions as "deeply troubling" and indicative of "callous indifference" toward his victims' humanity.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Duluth Police Department. Duluth Police Chief Mike Ceynowa expressed appreciation for their collaboration with HSI.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at combating child sexual exploitation nationwide since May 2006.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing prosecuted the case.