An Alvin resident, previously registered as a sex offender, received a 30-year prison sentence for distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via social media, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. David Lopez Jr., 46, who had earlier admitted to the charges, faced Judge Jeffrey V. Brown for sentencing after his guilty plea on June 27, 2024. In addition to his prison term, Lopez is ordered to pay restitution and will be placed under supervised release for life following his incarceration, necessitating compliance with stringent internet access restrictions.
The sentencing reflects both new offenses and a disturbing history. Lopez's criminal record, which dates back to 2006 for assaulting a child and indecency with a child, was brought to light alongside the impact on his victims through statements read in court, prosecutors noted. Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz labeled Lopez a continued threat, stating, "With today’s sentencing we have removed a dangerous predator from the community who has shown absolutely no remorse for his heinous actions two decades ago." Lopez's activity online, distributing videos and images that prolong the trauma for the victims, was singled out in commentary obtained by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Law enforcement attention was drawn to Lopez in 2016, when it was discovered he was utilizing social media platforms to share CSAM. Despite previous arrests and admissions of viewing child pornography, Lopez was again apprehended in October 2022 after resuming the trade and view of such material. Searches revealed a trove of disturbing content on his electronic devices, depicting infants and toddlers in explicit situations, including violence and acts of bestiality, bondage, and sadomasochistic conduct.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the Department of Justice since May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The investigation into Lopez’s activities was a collaborative effort by Homeland Security Investigations - Galveston, the Pearland Police Department, the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Ann Leo led the prosecution, which aims to bring offenders to justice while supporting victim recovery and prevention education.
