By: Yuritza Arroyo
Federal authorities announced that an Ocean County man today admitted distributing explicit images of minors.
According to federal officials, Alec Donovan, 26, of Brick, a youth wrestling coach and referee, pleaded guilty in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with one count of distribution of explicit images of children.
Federal officials said from January 2021 through March 2021, Donovan used an internet-based application to exchange multiple images and videos of child sexual abuse, including depictions involving pre-pubescent children.
Donovan also used the web-based messaging application to solicit and engage in conversations with minors, including requesting nude photographs from the minors and sending nude photographs to them.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
The charge of distribution of explicit images of minors carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 10.