El Paso Man Pleads Guilty To Production Of Child Pornography

In El Paso, 48-year-old Tomas Steven Quinones faces between 15 and 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty earlier today to one count of production of child pornography announced United States Attorney Robert Pitman and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Dennis Ulrich.

On August 29, 2013, HSI agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and seized over 90 assorted computers, accessories and other miscellaneous items including laptop computers, desktop computers, computer hard drives, thumb drives, memory sticks, flash drives, CDs, DVDs and VHS tapes. During an on-site forensics examination of the seized items, authorities discovered hundreds of image files and video files which are indicative of child pornography.  By pleading guilty, Quinones admitted to producing a video in December 2010 which contained child pornography.  Specifically, Quinones admitted to knowingly persuading and enticing two minors to take part in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a video depiction of such conduct.  Quinones is seen and heard throughout the video instructing the children on how to have sex.

Quinones remains in federal custody pending sentencing.  No sentencing date has been scheduled.

Assistant United States Attorney Rifian Newaz is prosecuting this case on behalf of the Government.