A West Bridgewater man has been charged with child pornography offenses, said officials on Thursday. Juan Levano, 23, was arrested for allegedly receiving the illicit material through an online communication app, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
Investigators identified Levano as a suspect following an investigation into the app, which is a known platform for the distribution of child pornography. Court documents state that Levano is accused of participating in at least two groups on the app where such material was shared.
During a search warrant at Levano's home, which is also a registered residential daycare, authorities seized several electronic devices. Levano and the daycare's owner have stated that he had no contact with the children there, according to a statement from the Justice Department.
The allegations intensified when an initial review of Levano's phone suggested his involvement with various groups that trafficked in child pornography. Over 100 video and image files suspected to be child pornography were discovered in a photo app on his device, as per the U.S. Attorney’s Office press release.
Levano is facing a potential sentence that ranges from five to 20 years in prison, potential lifelong supervision after release, and a fine of up to $250,000 if convicted.
Project Safe Childhood, a Department of Justice initiative dedicated to addressing child exploitation and abuse, includes this case. The program coordinates efforts among local, state, and federal agencies to locate and prosecute offenders while securing safety for the affected children.
While these are only allegations, Levano is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The question into the case continues, and the public is encouraged to offer information or inquiries by calling 617-748-3274, as announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England.
