Steven Pilar, Former Los Angeles Teacher, Arraigned on Federal Child Pornography Charges
Los Angeles, CA – Steven Pilar, a 47-year-old former elementary school teacher from La Puente, has been indicted on federal charges involving the receipt and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Pilar was arraigned today in the United States District Court in Los Angeles, where he faces four counts related to the alleged offenses.
Details of the Charges
The federal indictment against Pilar includes two counts of receiving child pornography (18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2)) and two counts of possessing child pornography (18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B)). These charges stem from incidents on February 8, 2020, and April 10, 2020, during which Pilar allegedly used BitTorrent, a peer-to-peer file-sharing network, to download over 400 videos and images depicting child sexual abuse.
18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2) specifically criminalizes the knowing receipt of any child pornography that has been transported using any means of interstate or foreign commerce, including by computer. The possession of such material, as charged under 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B), is also a serious federal offense, particularly when the material involves prepubescent children or sadistic or masochistic conduct, which can enhance sentencing.
Legal Context and Potential Sentencing
If convicted, Pilar faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and could be sentenced to up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of receiving child pornography. The possession charges carry a potential sentence of up to 10 years per count. Given the nature of the allegations and the volume of material involved, Pilar’s sentencing exposure could be significant, with a possible cumulative maximum sentence of 80 years.
Moreover, federal sentencing guidelines will take into account factors such as the nature and volume of the CSAM, Pilar’s role as an educator with access to minors, and whether any enhancements, such as those for use of a computer to facilitate the offenses, apply.
Legal Proceedings and Presumption of Innocence
Pilar was arrested on August 2, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada, following the indictment, and has been held without bond since his initial court appearance. While the charges are grave, it is essential to remember that an indictment is not a conviction. Under the legal principle of presumption of innocence, Pilar remains innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California as part of their ongoing efforts to combat the exploitation of children. The case highlights the federal government’s commitment to aggressively pursuing those who engage in the distribution and possession of CSAM, particularly individuals in positions of trust.
Protect Your Rights: Contact an Experienced Los Angeles Federal Defense Attorney
Federal charges involving child sexual abuse material are among the most serious offenses one can face, with the potential for severe penalties, including decades of imprisonment. Understanding the gravity of these charges and having the right legal representation is crucial to protecting your future.
At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we have extensive experience defending clients against serious federal charges, including those related to child sexual abuse material. With over 20 years of experience, Attorney Arash Hashemi understands what’s at stake, and we are committed to fighting on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Schedule a Consultation:
Phone: (310) 448-1529
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We are conveniently located in Los Angeles, serving clients throughout Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you.
