BOSTON — This is an official press release from the U.S. Department of Justice (USAO - Massachusetts), published as received.

BOSTON – A Plymouth man pleaded guilty today to possessing and distributing child pornography.

Brendan R. Kessler, 25, pleaded guilty to distribution and possession of child pornography.   U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2015.

On Sept. 2, 2014, after law enforcement became aware that Kessler had posted child pornography to a public file sharing program known as Lime Wire, federal agents executed a search warrant on Kessler’s residence and seized a computer and various digital storage devices containing multiple images and videos of child pornography.  Federal agents also located multiple boxes of fireworks, detonator cords, remote firing switches, a hand-written journal titled “Mass Murder Book,” and lists of chemicals needed to create explosive power.  Additionally, in an upstairs bedroom, agents located 14 firearms (3 semi-automatic pistols, 3 shotguns, and 8 rifles) and multiple boxes of various caliber ammunition. Kessler was arrested following the execution of the search warrant and is currently being held in federal custody.

The charging statute provides for a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, with a five year minimum mandatory term, and no less than five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release.  According to a plea agreement, the parties agreed that Kessler would recommend a sentence of no less than 63 months, and the government a sentence of no greater than 78 months. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Vincent B. Lisi, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Colonel Timothy P. Alban, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Plymouth Police Chief Michael E. Botieri, made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crime Unit.

The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood.  In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.     

Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274.