TYLER, TX - United States Attorney John L. Ratcliffe announced today that a 60-year-old Jacksonville, Texas man has pleaded guilty to child pornography charges in the Eastern District of Texas.

HAROLD EARL SCALLON pleaded guilty to possession of material involving the sexual exploitation of a child today before United States Magistrate Judge John D. Love.

According to information presented in court, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Scallon's residence on July 6, 2007, during which a personal computer was seized. Forensic analysis of the computer revealed visual depictions of minors involved in sexually explicit conduct. Scallon admitted to possessing more than 150 images and trading in child pornography.

Scallon faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00 at sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC). In February 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Lead by the United States Attorneys Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Secret Service, and the Longview Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bill Baldwin.