Springfield Resident Arraigned on Felony Charges of Attempted Luring of a Child and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials

The Attorney General's Office announced that Anthony Wasilenski, 42, of Springfield, Vermont, was arraigned today on one felony count of attempted luring of a child and three felony counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. The charges brought against Mr. Wasilenski are the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Vermont Internet Crimes Against Children Task force (VT-ICAC) and the Hartford Police Department.

Mr. Wasilenski pleaded not guilty in Vermont Superior Court, Windsor Criminal Division. The Judge, Jennifer Barrett, released Mr. Wasilenski on pre-trial conditions, which restrict his ability to have contact with children and electronics.

VT-ICAC investigates cases of child sexual exploitation occurring over the internet, including the production and online distribution of child sexual abuse materials. VT-ICAC also provides forensic examination services, technical assistance, law enforcement training, and public education and outreach.

Every child deserves a safe childhood. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) is the nation's centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. Anyone can make reports of suspected online enticement of children for sexual acts, child sexual molestation, child sexual abuse material, child sex tourism, child sex trafficking, unsolicited obscene materials sent to a child, misleading domain names, and misleading words or digital images on the internet. To make a report, call the 24-hour call center at 1-800-843-5678 or visit NCMEC's website.

Additionally, if you are recovering from child sexual exploitation, you do not have to navigate it alone. NCMEC can help with emotional and peer support, removing content from the internet, and locating mental health professionals. For more information, please visit the online resources page or call the 24-hour call center at 1-800-843-5678.

The Attorney General's Office emphasizes that individuals charged with a crime are legally presumed innocent until their guilt is proven beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Contact: Haley Sommer, Senior Advisor to the Attorney General, 802-828-3171