A Saline County man was sentenced on Mar. 13 to nine years in prison after pleading guilty to receiving child sexual abuse material, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois.
James Troy Martin, age 51 and a resident of Carrier Mills, admitted guilt to two counts of receipt of child pornography. The sentencing took place in Benton, Illinois.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said, “These are not just images. They are real children enduring horrific acts of sexual abuse and exploitation. Every download, share, or receipt of child pornography revictimizes those innocent children, prolonging their trauma and fueling a marketplace built on their suffering.” Weinhoeft continued, “Those who participate in this trade are complicit in the ongoing rape and torment of kids who deserve protection, not the perpetuation of their victimization.”
Court documents show that Martin received at least two images depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct between February and April 2024 in Saline County.
Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago, said, “This sentencing sends a clear message: those who exploit children by receiving child sexual abuse material will be held accountable.” Scarpino added, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children and pursuing justice for victims. HSI will continue to work with our partners to ensure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”
Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation into Martin’s activities. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sanders prosecuted the case.
