Ross Township Man Indicted For Sexual Exploitation Of  Children

Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 10:45 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PITTSBURGH, PA.- U.S. Attorney Eric G. Olshan reported, that on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, a Federal Grand Jury for the Western District of Pennsylvania returned a six-count indictment against Ralph Talerico, 44, of Ross Township, Pennsylvania, on charges of the Sexual Exploitation of Minors.

     According to charging information unsealed in the indictment, beginning in June through July 2023, Talerico produced and attempted to produce digital images depicting the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. 

     Talerico has also been charged in the indictment with possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation of prepubescent children and children under the age of twelve on June 6, 2024.

     If convicted on the charges, Talerico faces a minimum term of 15 years, up to 30 years in prison, and a fine of $1.5 million, or both. The actual sentence will be determined by a U.S. District Court Judge based on the seriousness of the offenses and Talerico’s prior criminal history, if any.

Case Brought Under Project Safe Childhood

     The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.

“The rules of the court require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”