Man Pleads Guilty To Sexual Exploitation

PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – Heath Powers, 34, of Plattsburgh, NY, pled guilty today to eleven (11) counts of production of child pornography, one (1) count of distribution of child pornography, and one (1) count of possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent-in-Charge Andrew W. Vale. Sentencing will be October 8, 2015 in Albany before United States District Judge Mae D’Agostino.

In entering his guilty plea, Powers admitted that between June through August 2014 he used a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and produced graphic images of that conduct. He also admitted that he possessed and distributed child pornography.

At sentencing, the defendant faces at least 15 years and up to 30 years in prison on each production of child pornography charge; at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison on the distribution of child pornography charge; and up to 20 years in prison on the possession of child pornography charge. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, a lifetime term of supervised release and registration as a sex offender.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Kopita.