Federal criminal charges are among the most serious allegations an individual can face, particularly when they involve accusations related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Recently, a Brazilian national residing in Milford, Massachusetts was arrested and charged in federal court with possession of CSAM. Joao Carlos Tavares Da Silva, 21, residing in Milford, was arrested and charged in federal court in Worcester for possession of Child Sexual Abuse material (CSAM).
The charging documents state that Tavares Da Silva is a Brazilian citizen with an outstanding warrant in Brazil for statutory rape; the production, reproduction, direction, recording or filming of scenes of explicit sexual acts or pornography involving children or adolescents and selling or offering for sale any photograph, video or other recording that contains scenes of explicit sexual acts or pornography involving a child or adolescent. Multiple electronic devices were seized during a search of Tavares Da Silva’s home in Milford. One of these devices contained CSAM, according to the criminal complaint affidavit. The alleged victim in the images was identified as Brazilian.
Understanding the Seriousness of Federal CSAM Allegations
Under federal law, a conviction for possession of CSAM carries severe potential penalties, including up to 20 years in federal prison, lifetime supervised release, and fines of up to $250,000. Sentencing in federal cases is governed by U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and federal statutes. This gives judges broad discretion while imposing harsh consequences.
Federal offenses of this nature can also trigger life altering immigration consequences, including mandatory detention, removal proceedings, and permanent bars to re-entry into the United States. Even lawful permanent residents may face deportation if convicted.
This case was prosecuted under the Project Safe Childhood initiative, a nationwide effort that brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crimes involving the exploitation of minors. These investigations are very often complex, technology-driven, and aggressively pursued. In addition, cases involving the dissemination of prohibited CSAM material often cross borders and involve multi-jurisdictional warrants or the Interpol international alert system.
The Importance of Retaining Experienced Legal Representation Without Delay
Federal prosecutions of sexual crimes demand urgent strategic legal action. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate how evidence was obtained, challenge search and seizure procedures, analyze forensic findings, and pursue defense strategies tailored to the unique facts of the case. At Dhar Law, LLP, our firm has a reputation for hard-hitting and compelling criminal defense strategies that preserve the rights of the accused. We specialize in federal criminal sex crimes defense that may involve national and international jurisdictions. We offer translation services in major languages and work closely with clients to ensure they fully understand their rights and legal options. Contact a member of our award-winning team to learn more at 617 880-6155.
