United States of America v. Paul Hovorka

Sioux Falls, South Dakota possession of child porn criminal defense lawyer represented Paul Hovorka, who was charged with possession of child pornography.



The conviction stemmed from incidents between June 15, 2019, and November 21, 2019, when Hovorka accessed child pornography using a private social media network known as "MeWe." Using the "MeWe" app, he uploaded images of child pornography and shared images of child pornography with other users of the "MeWe" app. After receiving a cybertip of the illegal activity, law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant and discovered child pornography on two of Hovorka's cell phones.



This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.



Hovorka is required to report to the U.S. Marshals Service on October 29, 2020.

Defendant was sentenced to 50 months' imprisonment; five years' supervised release; $100 special assessment; forfeiture of items as stated by the Court.