Hammond, IN – A Hammond man who served as Director of Buildings and Grounds for the Hammond City School System has been indicted on federal child pornography charges following his arrest earlier this month.
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana, a federal Grand Jury approved a three-count indictment on Thursday charging David Michael Reyes with the production, distribution, and possession of child pornography. Reyes was taken into custody on August 15 and remains detained.
Authorities said the charges are the result of a coordinated effort involving federal and local agencies. “While an indictment is merely an allegation, it is imperative that we ensure we are addressing the full extent of criminal activity when allegations of crimes against children are involved,” Acting U.S. Attorney M. Scott Proctor stated. He urged anyone with information to contact Homeland Security Investigations.
Reyes’s former position within the school system placed him in a role of authority, increasing concerns about potential abuse of trust, officials said. “HSI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who prey upon children are held accountable,” said HSI Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino.
Each count carries substantial penalties. The production charge has a minimum 15-year prison sentence and a maximum of 30 years. The distribution charge carries a minimum of 5 years and up to 20 years, while the possession charge has a maximum penalty of 20 years.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nadia Wardrip. The investigation involves Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police, the Indiana State Police ICAC unit, and the Hammond City School District.
Anyone with information or who believes they may have been victimized is encouraged to contact Homeland Security Investigations at 1-877-4-HSI-TIP.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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