The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has announced the indictment of Sean Banks, 55, and Asheyla Barbour, 31, both from Franklin County, Pennsylvania. They face charges relating to drug trafficking and the sexual exploitation of children, according to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus.
The federal grand jury has brought forward fourteen counts against Banks and Barbour. The indictment alleges that, between June 2023 and March 2024, Banks produced multiple videos involving the sexual exploitation of two minors. It is further alleged that Barbour allowed the minors to take part in sexually explicit acts. Both are charged with distribution and receipt of child pornography, respectively. The indictment also includes charges against them for possessing fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana with the intent to distribute.
The investigation was conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Dukes is overseeing the prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative started by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to tackle child sexual exploitation and abuse. The initiative coordinates efforts among federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, aiming to identify and rescue victims.
Under federal law, each violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a) carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, with a minimum term of 15 years, as well as supervised release and a fine. Sentencing follows the determination of guilt, considering federal statutes and sentencing guidelines.
It is important to note that indictments and criminal informations are merely allegations. Those charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.