The Dangers of Snapchat: NJ Man Accused of Targeting Minors
A middle-aged New Jersey man, who prosecutors say was posing as a high school student, has been arrested on child porn-related offenses.
38-year-old Daniel Berwick of Old Bridge is facing two counts of producing child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
On Tuesday, Berwick made an initial appearance in federal court in Trenton, and he was ordered detained.
How Investigators Say the Scheme Worked
Federal authorities said last August and September, Berwick persuaded and enticed two minors to send him photos and videos via Snapchat that depicted them engaging in sexual activity.
As part of his scheme, Berwick catfished his victims by presenting himself as a 17-year-old high school student and appropriating the photos and video recordings of an adult content creator.
Law enforcement became aware of Berwick after one of the victims reported him on Snapchat after he threatened to send compromising photos of her to her family and officials at her high school.
What Authorities Allegedly Found on His Devices
After searching Berwick's electronic devices, officials said they uncovered, among other things, at least 1,000 images of child porn, including prepubescent minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct, sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler, and images portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct.
Each production of child pornography charge carries a potential sentence of 15 to 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The possession of child porn charge could send Berwick to prison for up to 20 years because at least one image associated with the offense allegedly included a prepubescent minor.
The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Chris Coleman is a South Jersey native and has been a cornerstone of the Atlantic City radio market since 1998. He serves as Brand Manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 and afternoon on-air personality for Cat Country 107.3. A five-time President's Circle award winner and Townsquare Media's 2024 Content Creator of the Year, Chris covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com
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