Las Cruces man sentenced to 20 years in prison for child abuse, nephew gets more than 17 years

A Las Cruces man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in a horrifying child exploitation case that involved the exchange of thousands of explicit images and videos of minors. Ryan Gallardo, 24, and his cousin Yamil Pillado conspired to distribute and receive illegal material via various digital platforms between April of last year and this year, the investigation revealed, the U.S. Department of Justice announced.

The case, which has rocked the community, was prosecuted after detailed court documents exposed the pair’s exchange of child pornography files. Some of the content included material involving bestiality and sadomasochism, and disturbing communications described previous sexual misconduct and plans to victimize minors. Given these offenses, there is no parole in the federal system, meaning Gallardo will serve the full two decades behind bars.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Pillado pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and receive child pornography, which earned him a sentence of more than 17 years, followed by a strict 20-year supervised release. Additionally, both men must register as sex offenders upon their release.

This conviction demonstrates the determination of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable in our society, said U.S. Attorney’s Office Alexander MM Uballez, noting the seriousness of Gallardo and Pillado’s actions. Jason T. Stevens, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations – El Paso, also emphasized their commitment to bringing to justice those who exploit children, regardless of the technology they use to commit these heinous crimes.