A man from Lewiston has pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Portland to charges related to possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material. The case originated from two reports received in June 2022 by the Maine State Police Computer Crimes Unit (MSPCCU) from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). These CyberTips led investigators to identify Harold Clayton III, 35, as a suspect.
In September 2022, a search warrant was executed at Clayton's home by MSPCCU and the Lewiston Police Department, resulting in the seizure of a cell phone and laptop. These devices contained several images and videos of children, including toddlers, who were sexually abused by adults. Evidence on the phone also revealed Clayton had used Telegram Messenger to distribute these materials.
Clayton faces severe penalties, including 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 for distributing child pornography. Additionally, there is a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on the possession charge. The sentencing will occur following a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office, and the final decision will be made by a federal district court judge considering relevant guidelines and factors.
The case investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) along with MSPCCU, aided by the Lewiston Police Department.
Child sexual abuse material, legally termed "child pornography," involves the exploitation of children. Such abuse results in repeated victimization each time material is accessed. In 2023, NCMEC received 36 million reports related to child sexual abuse materials. Reports can be filed via their website or by contacting their helpline. In Maine, individuals affected by sexual assault or abuse can seek help via a confidential 24-hour helpline.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a Department of Justice initiative launched in May 2006 to address child sexual exploitation and abuse. Through this project, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and various Department sections coordinate to prosecute individuals exploiting children and to identify and assist victims.
For more information, visit the Project Safe Childhood section of the Department of Justice website.