Adam Ranslow, a resident of Whitingham, Vermont, has been charged on four felony counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials, according to a statement from the Attorney General’s Office today. The charges stem from a criminal investigation led by the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (VT-ICAC), incorporating members from the Attorney General’s Office, Vermont State Police, and Homeland Security Investigations.
The investigation was launched after the VT-ICAC Task Force received a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The report was submitted by Kik, concerning allegations of child sexual molestation. Following a criminal investigation triggered by this tip, Mr. Ranslow was suspected of possessing multiple images of child sexual abuse materials.
During the arraignment held in Vermont Superior Court, Windham Unit, Criminal Division, Mr. Ranslow pled not guilty to all charges. Judge John Treadwell, who presided over the court, outlined the conditions of Mr. Ranslow’s release, which include limitations on his access to minors, electronic devices, and the internet. Additionally, a curfew was imposed.
VT-ICAC is responsible for probing cases involving child sexual exploitation through the internet, including the production and distribution of child sexual abuse materials online. The task force also offers forensic examination services, technical support, training for law enforcement, and outreach efforts for the public.
A spokesperson stated, “Every child deserves a safe childhood,” underscoring the commitment to tackling child exploitation. NCMEC serves as the national reporting avenue for cases of online child exploitation. Reports can involve various offenses, including child sexual abuse material and online enticement for sexual acts. There is a 24-hour call center available at 1-800-843-5678, or reports can be submitted online at https://report.cybertip.org.
NCMEC also provides resources for survivors of child sexual exploitation. These services include emotional and peer support, help in removing content from the internet, and assistance in finding mental health professionals. More information can be accessed by visiting https://www.missingkids.org/gethelpnow/csam-resources or by calling the 24-hour hotline.