Public encouraged to notify law enforcement if they have any further information

PRESS RELEASE

Indianapolis-United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced today that a New Richmond, Indiana, man faces several counts of sexual exploitation of a child and possession of child pornography. Harry D. Dawson, 53, was arrested by local, state and federal law enforcement officials for his role in allegedly filming minors performing various sexually explicit acts.

“Protecting minor victims from sexual predators will always remain a top priority of this office,” said Minkler. “Those who are not able to protect themselves are the victims for which we will advocate the hardest.”

Law enforcement received a tip through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Dawson allegedly uploaded images to SKYPE/Microsoft depicting two young males engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Search warrants were served on his cell phone and home where officers found sexually explicit images and videos of numerous minor victims. Further, it is alleged that Dawson directed three minor victims to perform sexually explicit activity while he videoed them. Law enforcement has also recovered a large collection of child pornography from a number of electronic devices at his home.

The public is encouraged to call law enforcement officials if they have any reason to believe Dawson may have had inappropriate contact with their children or other youth in the community. The toll-free number is 800-CALLFBI (225-5324) or www.fbi.gov/tips.

This case is being investigated by the Indiana State Police, the FBI and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department.

According to Assistant United States Attorney Tiffany J. Preston who is prosecuting this case for the government, Dawson faces decades in prison if convicted.

A criminal complaint is only a charge and not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proved otherwise in federal court.  

In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the Office’s firm commitment to prosecuting those who exploit or harm children and to work closely with Project Safe Childhood. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan 4.1 and 4.2

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