A former member of the NYPD has been sentenced to a substantial 23 years in prison for egregious crimes involving the sexual exploitation of minors online. The officer, Carmine Simpson, carried out his misconduct during his tenure as a police officer, using social media platforms to engage with and manipulate children, some as young as 13, into sending him sexually explicit material, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Simpson, who pleaded guilty to one count of sexually exploiting a minor in March 2023, resigned from the NYPD the previous year after his predatory activities came to light his conduct included catfishing minors on X where he created multiple false personas, masquerading as a teenager to ensnare his victims and compelled them to send him nude images and videos. In one particularly disturbing instance, he pressured a 13-year-old transgender boy into sending explicit videos and instructed him to write degrading statements on his body.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., the U.S. Attorney overseeing this case, condemned Simpson's actions as "reprehensible," highlighting the egregious nature of his conduct given his former role in law enforcement. The FBI reiterated this sentiment, with Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia stating, "Carmine Simpson betrayed his badge by preying upon minors for twisted sexual gratification," a direct quote as reported on the U.S. Attorney's Office.
As part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative addressing child sexual exploitation and abuse, Simpson’s prosecution highlights the risks associated with the misuse of trust in the digital age. His case concluded with a substantial prison sentence, reflecting the seriousness of the charges. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan E. Farrell, resulting in a long-term sentence intended to hold the defendant accountable and prevent similar conduct.
