On May 8, 2025, Ashish Kapoor, also known as "Romy Kapoor," a 28-year-old national of India, was charged in a superseding indictment for the transportation and possession of child pornography. The charges were announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Kapoor faces serious penalties if convicted. For the charge of transportation of child pornography, he could receive a minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years imprisonment, along with a fine of up to $250,000. Additionally, there is the possibility of supervised release for life and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. For possession of child pornography, Kapoor faces up to 20 years imprisonment under similar financial penalties and conditions.
The indictment alleges that on February 21, 2024, Kapoor transported a cellphone containing digital videos and images depicting minors in sexually explicit conduct. Further allegations state that on December 20, 2024, he possessed digital content involving prepubescent minors under the age of 12 engaging in such conduct.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson emphasized that the indictment is merely an accusation and guilt must be established beyond reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. It aims to utilize federal, state, and local resources to apprehend offenders exploiting children online while identifying and rescuing victims.
The investigation involved several agencies including the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Customs and Border Protection, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Carboni from the Financial Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood initiatives visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.