Minnesota Federal Jury Convicts Illegal Alien in Child Porn Case
Minneapolis, MN (MinnesotaNow) - Federal prosecutors in Minnesota say a Mexican man who is in the U.S. illegally is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison following his conviction in a child pornography case.
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Attempted Child Pornography Production
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Minnesota announced today that a federal jury has found 65-year-old Alejandro Rojas Garcia guilty of attempted production of child pornography. A news release states that he still faces related charges in state court in connection with an investigation conducted by the Stillwater Police Department.
Stillwater Police Investigation Began in April 2024
According to court documents, the investigation began in April 2024 after law enforcement received evidence that Garcia had sexually assaulted will two sisters, both of whom were under the age of 13. Prosecutors presented evidence at trial indicating that Garcia was a trusted friend of the family and provided childcare for the two victims, who would spend time at his apartment.
Apartment Contained Hidden Cameras and Numerous Storage Devices
The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at Garcia's apartment, where authorities discovered various storage devices containing child sexual abuse material involving one of the victims and other children. Investigators also reported finding hidden cameras placed throughout the apartment, including 5 hidden cameras in the bathroom that were aimed toward the toilet and shower.
Key Piece of Evidence Found it Hidden in Crucifix
The evidence included a microSD card containing child sexual abuse material that was hidden inside a crucifix hanging on the wall in Garcia's bedroom. A storage device was discovered behind the bottle of holy water in the crucifix.
According to the news release, Garcia admitted during his trial that he had placed the material on the microSD card but denied producing it with the intent to gratify his sexual desires.
A sentencing hearing for Garcia has not yet been scheduled.
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Gallery Credit: Rick Acker