Max Fishkind, a 24-year-old resident of New Paltz, New York, faces charges related to the online sexual exploitation of a minor. Authorities including United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, the Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the FBI, announced the charges.
The complaint indicates that on September 23, 2024, Fishkind allegedly used Snapchat to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a 15-year-old into creating and sending self-produced child sexual abuse material. The child initially believed Fishkind was 17 years old but cut off communication upon realizing he was not a minor.
Fishkind's case came under FBI scrutiny after a minor's parents in Maryland reported inappropriate messaging involving their child, including self-produced nude images sent over Snapchat. The FBI took over the investigation after Fishkind's move from Houston, Texas, to New Paltz, leading to the charges announced today. Importantly, Fishkind is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Today, Fishkind made his initial court appearance in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart, and he was detained pending a detention hearing set for May 5.
If convicted, Fishkind could face a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years, a fine up to $250,000, and a supervised release period between five years and life. Restitution to the victim and forfeiture of devices used in the offense may also be ordered. Post-imprisonment, he would be required to register as a sex offender. Sentences are determined by the judge, considering relevant statutes, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and additional factors.
The FBI is conducting the investigation, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark leading the prosecution under Project Safe Childhood. This initiative, started by the Department of Justice in May 2006, unites federal, state, and local resources to address online child exploitation, focusing on apprehending offenders and rescuing victims. More information is available at https://www.justice.gov/psc.