Chelsea man sentenced to 10 years in prison for child pornography – Boston 25 News

Lina PortmanJune 7, 2024

0 1 minute read

A Chelsea man was sentenced to 10 years in prison for child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Joshua Levy said Thursday.

Lasall Johnson, 55, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. In March 2024, Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

Around June 2021, an investigation into a peer-to-peer file sharing program identified Johnson as the owner of an IP address distributing large quantities of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Johnson's IP address allegedly offered to share more than 85 suspected CSAM files.

When investigators searched Johnson's rented room, six electronic devices were seized, including three cell phones, two USB drives and an electronic tablet. A forensic analysis located approximately 341 image and video files depicting child pornography between the three devices, some of which depicted victims as young as four years old.

“Mr. Johnson's incredibly dangerous predatory actions have perpetuated the exploitation and abuse of the most vulnerable members of our society. The sentence imposed not only eliminates a threat to our communities, but also sends a clear and unequivocal message to others potential offenders: Possession of child pornography carries serious and serious consequences,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy “Possession of child pornography is far from a victimless crime. and video depicts a real child who was horribly victimized, and the consumption and distribution of this material contributes to a cycle of abuse that leaves lasting scars on victims. Our office remains firmly committed to protecting children from these predators. This phrase reflects our unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities, especially the children who depend on us for their protection.

Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in state prison, with two years committed and the remainder suspended for 18 years in 1989 after being convicted of two counts of rape. As a result of this conviction, Johnson was deemed a Level 2 sex offender.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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