CHESTERFIELD TOWNSHIP (WWJ) A Chesterfield Township man faces up to 20 years in prison on child pornography charges if convicted.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office said deputies arrested Joshua Mathes, 43, outside of his home on Thursday morning (10/24). Detectives uncovered laptops, cellphones and tablets from his home—some linked to websites used by child predators.
According to the Macomb County Prosecutor's Office, Mathes received and shared child porn on online message boards and websites between February 23rd and February 27th of this year.
He faces the following charges:
Count 1: Aggravated Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Material, ten year felony
Count 2: Aggravated Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Material, ten year felony
Count 3: Aggravated Possession of Child Sexually Abusive Material, ten year felony
Count 4: Using a Computer to Commit a Crime with Maximum Prisonment of Ten Years, a 10 year felony
Count 5: Using a Computer to Commit a Crime with Maximum Prisonment of Ten Years, a 10 year felony
Count 6: Using a Computer to Commit a Crime with Maximum Prisonment of Ten Years, a 10 year felony
He was arraigned Friday in District Court in New Baltimore. The judge set his bond at $10,000 cash/surety. If he's released, he is prohibited from accessing the internet or having contact with anyone under the age of 18.
"The charges in this case reflect disturbing exploitation of vulnerable young children, and we are committed to pursuing justice for these children." Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in a press release from his office. "We will work tirelessly to hold accountable those who use online platforms to perpetuate abuse and ensure a safer future for our children."
He is due back in court for a probable cause hearing on November 6th.
