A Corpus Christi resident, aged 23, received a federal prison sentence for distributing child sexual abuse material. U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced the sentencing of Pete Frank, who pleaded guilty on November 25, 2024.
U.S. District Judge David Morales sentenced Frank to 240 months in federal prison. During the hearing, it was revealed that Frank engaged in online conversations detailing his past assaults on a young family member. In addition to his prison term, Frank will have a 25-year supervised release period with strict conditions. He is also required to register as a sex offender.
Authorities first identified Frank on April 14, 2020, upon discovering an internet user accessing files depicting child sexual assault material. A search of his residence uncovered his cell phone. Forensic examinations confirmed his participation in exchanging images and videos with others interested in CSAM. He also discussed strategies for engaging in sexual activities with minors.
Pending his transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility, Frank remains in custody. U.S. Attorney Ganjei commented, “Those that possess and trade CSAM indirectly contribute to the production of that terrible material, and so punishing possession helps to diminish demand.” He added that the 20-year sentence should act as a deterrent to others.
The investigation involved the Corpus Christi Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman prosecuted the case under Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a Department of Justice initiative from May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation. The initiative coordinates resources to apprehend and prosecute offenders while rescuing victims.
For more details about PSC and internet safety, visit the Department of Justice’s PSC page and their resources section.