Evergreen Reporter

Anthony Clyde Hoffman, a 29-year-old resident of Scranton, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to the production and possession of child pornography. The indictment was announced by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania on February 4, 2025.

Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus stated that in November 2024, law enforcement agents discovered over 800 unique images and videos of child exploitation material at Hoffman's residence during a search warrant execution. Furthermore, it was revealed that Hoffman produced child exploitation images of a toddler using his cell phone in May 2024.

The investigation was carried out by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force. This task force was established in late 2023 and includes federal, state, and local investigators as well as District Attorney’s Offices from Northeastern Pennsylvania. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is handling the prosecution.

Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Edward V. Owens emphasized the importance of collaboration in such cases: “This indictment underscores the dedication and cooperation between HSI and our federal, state, and local partners within the Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force.” He added that protecting vulnerable individuals is a primary mission for HSI.

Task Force Chair and Wyoming County District Attorney Joe Peters praised the collaborative efforts: “Successful cooperation between the partners of the Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force allows for collaborative prosecutions such as this one.” He assured that efforts to protect children in Northeastern Pennsylvania would be increased.

District Attorney Raymond J. Tonkin highlighted their commitment to safeguarding children: “Children are our most precious resource in every community.”

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation. It aims to coordinate resources at various governmental levels to prosecute offenders and rescue victims.

Under federal law, if found guilty, Hoffman faces a maximum penalty of 50 years imprisonment, supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. Sentencing will be determined based on federal statutes and guidelines.

It is important to note that indictments are allegations; those charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.