Melrose Man Charged In Child Pornography Case

MELROSE, MA — A Melrose man was charged this week in connection with an investigation into child sexual abuse material, the U.S. Attorney's Office for Massachusetts said on Friday.

Patrick Baxter, 42, was arrested on Wednesday, according to officials.

The U.S. Attorney's Office cited charging documents, alleging Baxter downloaded such material from the internet twice in June and July of last year.

Officials said a search of Baxter’s residence later found a computer hard drive allegedly with more than 400 video files showing child sexual abuse.

Baxter appeared in federal court on Thursday, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office, where he is facing charges of receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography.

The receipt of child pornography charge could carry a sentence of up to 20 years in prison with a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

The possession of child pornography charge could carry up to 10 years in prison, also with a lifetime of supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

Baxter was detained Thursday pending a detention hearing that had not been scheduled as of Friday.