An Atkins man will spend more than 19 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to producing child sexual abuse material involving underage victims, according to federal prosecutors.
Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced that 28-year-old James Baker of Atkins was sentenced Wednesday by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller to 235 months in federal prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Federal officials said Baker was indicted on August 5, 2025, by a federal grand jury on 14 counts, including 7 counts of production of child sexual abuse material and 7 counts of receipt of child sexual abuse material. Baker later pleaded guilty on March 4, 2026, to 1 count of production of child sexual abuse material.
According to court records, the investigation began on June 30, 2025, after authorities received a report through the child abuse hotline regarding inappropriate text messages between a 12-year-old girl and a 27-year-old man later identified as Baker.
Investigators discovered Baker had received numerous nude photographs and videos from the victim and had requested sexually explicit images and videos through text messages.
Federal authorities also identified a second victim during the investigation. Between July 5, 2025, and August 4, 2025, Baker communicated with a 16-year-old girl about moving in together and exchanged sexually explicit photographs. Prosecutors said Baker told the minor he would like to marry her after she turned 18 and admitted he concealed her age from friends because he feared they would contact law enforcement.
During a meeting with his probation officer, Baker admitted he had inappropriate relationships with both minors and acknowledged sending and receiving nude photographs and videos. According to prosecutors, Baker also admitted he was attracted to younger girls.
The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The program coordinates federal, state, and local law enforcement efforts to identify offenders, rescue victims, and prosecute crimes involving the exploitation of children.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security with assistance from the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office and the Arkansas State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant prosecuted the case.
Federal officials noted there is no parole in the federal prison system.
To report a typo, please click here: newsarkansasradio@gmail.com
Leave a Reply