Yankton Man Sentenced 45 Years For Child Pornography
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Yankton, South Dakota. U.S. Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange sentenced Robert Barbetti, 34, to 45 years in federal prison on July 6, 2026, after a conviction on two counts of Production of Child Pornography; reports state Barbetti used social media platforms including Snapchat and Wink to coerce minors between 2018 and 2023.
The sentence also includes eight years of supervised release, a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund, and mandatory sex-offender registration upon release; Barbetti was indicted in February 2024 and pleaded guilty on April 6, 2026, and prosecutors say victims included juveniles located in Texas and Virginia.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2018–2023: Alleged online coercion of minors by Barbetti via social platforms.
- 2. February 2024: Federal grand jury indicts Robert Barbetti.
- 3. April 6, 2026: Barbetti pleads guilty to two counts of production of child pornography.
- 4. July 6, 2026: U.S. Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange sentences Barbetti to 45 years imprisonment.
- 5. Post-sentencing: Order includes eight years supervised release, $200 assessment, and sex-offender registration.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing risk of online child exploitation. It's a reminder to monitor your children's social media activity. Regularly check their friend lists and conversations. Teach them about the dangers of sharing personal information online.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
