Post Falls man sentenced to 20 years in prison for child exploitation, ordered to pay $38,000

POST FALLS, Idaho — A Post Falls man has been sentenced to federal prison for child sexual exploitation.

Kevin Richmond, 63, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by lifelong supervision, and must pay $38,000 in restitution to his victims, according to U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit.

“We hope for healing for the victims of this horrific case,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Idaho residents need to know that our office and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting children. Anyone who engages in child abuse should know that we will do everything in our power to find them and hold them accountable, just as we did with this defendant.”

Court records show that in December 2022, police received multiple tips indicating that Richmond was uploading child pornography to a data storage service. Based on these tips, a federal magistrate judge issued a search warrant for Richmond’s online account, allowing authorities to search and examine the contents of his data storage.

Law enforcement discovered that Richmond not only possessed child pornography, but also produced child pornography featuring a victim. An additional search warrant was obtained, allowing for the seizure of digital devices from Richmond’s Post Falls residence.

During a subsequent search of Richmond’s home, authorities found child pornography on his cell phone and discovered online communications in which Richmond claimed to have access to a minor for sexual purposes. Richmond agreed to an interview with police on the day of the search and admitted to receiving child pornography through an internet app and producing it with his cell phone, including using the child’s name in the material.

“Richmond’s conviction for child sexual exploitation is an important step in our efforts to protect the community, and especially our children, from those who pose a serious threat,” said Post Falls Police Chief Greg McLean. “This case highlights the importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to ensure that those who commit such heinous crimes are held accountable.”

The Post Falls Police Department, the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the U.S. Secret Service worked together on the investigation and charges against Richmond.

“It took the dedicated teamwork of ICAC, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and all of our partner agencies to put this predator behind bars so he can no longer harm our children,” said Attorney General Raul Labrador. “I am grateful for the hard work of everyone involved: the prosecutors, investigators, and the judge who recognized the danger to our community.”

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