New Bedford Man Arrested on Child Porn Charges

BOSTON — A New Bedford man was arrested yesterday on charges of receiving and possessing child pornography.

Robert David Austin, 41, appeared before a federal court magistrate on Tuesday and is being detained pending a hearing set for later this afternoon, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Court documents show Austin is suspected of participating in a number of groups on a messenger app through which child porn is spread.

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On Nov. 3, authorities searched Austin’s home, and allegedly found child pornography on his cell phone, the office stated.

Further analysis of his phone identified the messaging app that Austin allegedly used to disseminate child pornography.

Austin faces a sentence of five to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

The office stated that members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274.

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Filed Under: New Bedford, Robert David Austin, U.S. Attorney's Office

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