Ulster County man pleads guilty to possession of child abuse material

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Joseph O’Bryan, 31, of Shawangunk, faces up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to possession of an obscene sexual performance by a child. O’Bryan was already awaiting sentencing on a separate conviction for promoting a sexual performance by a child when he pleaded guilty to the second charge.

According to the Ulster County District Attorney, O’Bryan pleaded guilty on March 20, 2024, to promoting a sexual performance by a child after being indicted on 21 counts of downloading and sharing child abuse material. The New York State Police executed a search warrant on his home in 2020, and two days before his sentencing, on May 29, the State Police executed a search warrant on his electronics, again finding him in possession of more than 280 images and videos of child abuse material.

“Joseph O’Bryan represents a nightmare for parents and the well-being of children in every community,” said Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel C. Nneji. “His conduct directly contributes to the exploitation and trafficking of children; it also takes a toll on law enforcement who must always be vigilant to serve and protect the children of our community – I am eternally grateful for their dedication and effectiveness.”

Based on the violation of the first plea and his conviction on the new charges, O’Bryan must register as a sex offender for both felony convictions. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday, December 18.