Evergreen Reporter

Scott Michael Elam, a 41-year-old resident of Caledonia, has pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Andrew Birge. Elam is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and could be sentenced to up to 90 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for May 29.

Elam was arrested and indicted in November 2024 on seven counts involving the sexual exploitation of four minors. Court documents reveal that he recorded himself engaging in sexual acts with one minor on two occasions and instructed other victims to create explicit photos and videos of themselves, which they then sent to him. He provided alcohol, marijuana, vapes, and other contraband to these minors and charged money for each act. Additionally, he offered reduced prices for those who created sexually explicit content or engaged in sexual activities with him.

Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, stated: “Today’s plea by Scott Elam highlights the FBI’s unwavering commitment to holding sexual predators accountable and safeguarding our most vulnerable citizens.” He expressed gratitude for the dedication shown by members of the FBI in Michigan, including those involved with the West Michigan-based Child Exploitation Task Force (WEBCHEX), as well as partners at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The Kent County Sheriff’s Office also emphasized its commitment to pursuing justice for child exploitation victims: “This case highlights the critical importance of parents and guardians having open conversations with their children about the dangers of social media.”

The investigation is being conducted by both the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, while Assistant United States Attorney Olivia Ghiselli is handling prosecution duties.

This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative aimed at protecting children from online exploitation and abuse through collaboration between various law enforcement agencies at different levels. The project also focuses on educating communities about online child exploitation risks.