HSI Galveston seeking potential child exploitation victims in Southeast Texas

HSI Galveston seeking potential child exploitation victims in ...  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Newsroom

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Nov 25, 2023 - 21:30
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HSI Galveston seeking potential child exploitation victims in Southeast Texas

GALVESTON, Texas – Former Martial Arts and Gymnastics Instructor Charged with Child Pornography Crimes

A former martial arts and gymnastics instructor, Franklin Joseph Perkins, has been charged with multiple child pornography-related crimes. Perkins, who previously worked at the Kuk Sool Won Dojo and Gulf Coast Gymnastics in Alvin, Texas, was indicted on November 15 by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Texas. The charges include transportation, receipt, and possession of child pornography.

Investigation Details

The investigation was initiated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Galveston after law enforcement received information about suspected child sexual abuse materials being uploaded through an online account allegedly controlled by Perkins. A federal search warrant was executed at Perkins’ residence, where child sexual abuse materials were discovered in a Google Drive account associated with him. Additionally, non-pornographic images of underage minors in gymnastics clothing and screenshots depicting young girls’ social media accounts were found.

Allegations of Sexual Assault

During the investigation, two women who were formerly minors and had been students of Perkins came forward with allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate contact. These incidents are believed to have occurred when Perkins was their gymnastics instructor in Alvin.

Seeking Additional Victims

Law enforcement suspects that there may be additional victims and is seeking the public’s help in identifying them. Individuals who have been exploited by Perkins or have any information related to his crimes are encouraged to report it to HSI Galveston at (409) 443-0103.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. Goal 4: Quality Education
  • Perkins’ role as an instructor highlights the importance of ensuring a safe learning environment for children.
  • Goal 5: Gender Equality
    • The allegations of sexual assault and inappropriate contact emphasize the need to address gender-based violence and protect the rights of women and girls.
  • Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
    • Efforts to investigate and convict individuals responsible for child sexual exploitation contribute to achieving this goal. It is crucial to ensure justice for victims and provide them with necessary support for recovery.

    Consequences and Prosecution

    If convicted, Perkins could face a minimum of five years and up to 20 years in federal prison for the transportation and receipt charges, as well as up to 10 years for possessing child pornography. All counts also carry potential fines and mandatory restitution for the victims.

    Reporting Suspected Cases

    Suspected victims of child sexual exploitation or missing children can report to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children by calling its toll-free 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST.

    About HSI

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, particularly those involving criminal organizations that exploit global infrastructure. HSI has a large workforce dedicated to combating child exploitation and pornography both domestically and internationally.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct and does not serve as evidence. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty through due process of law.

     

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