Shrewsbury, a peaceful town in Massachusetts, was rocked by the recent arrest of Brian Lingard, a 60-year-old volunteer mentor for the renowned Shrewsbury High School Robotics program. Lingard, who had been actively involved in the program since 2013, was taken into custody on charges of possessing and transporting child pornography.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office revealed that Lingard’s phone contained 23 disturbing images depicting child sexual abuse material involving children under the age of 10. A subsequent search of Lingard’s residence uncovered a more significant collection of alleged sexual abuse material. Shockingly, investigators also discovered multiple images of fully clothed young females, presumably minors, with a focus on their buttocks. These images were disturbingly set in what appeared to be a school environment.
While the U.S. Attorney’s Office clarified that these images were not considered child pornography and were not part of the criminal charges, the revelation has deeply unsettled the community. Shrewsbury High School Principal Todd Bazydlo, in an email to high school families, expressed his distress over the situation and emphasized that Lingard had successfully passed all necessary background checks during his time as a volunteer.
The charges Lingard faces are grave. The transport of child pornography carries a sentencing range between five to 20 years in prison, along with a lifetime of supervised release and a potential fine of $250,000. Similarly, the possession of child pornography can result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
In light of these unsettling events, Bazydlo urged anyone with information or questions to contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Project Safe Childhood hotline at (617) 748-3274. Additionally, concerned individuals could reach out to Bazydlo’s office directly at (508) 841-8800.
Our thoughts are with the affected students, their families, and the entire Shrewsbury community during this difficult time. It is a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding our children and maintaining trust within educational institutions.
FAQ
1. What were the charges against Brian Lingard?
Brian Lingard was arrested on charges of possessing and transporting child pornography.
2. Were the images found on Lingard’s phone considered child pornography?
The images found on Lingard’s phone were not considered child pornography and were not part of the criminal charges. However, they were deeply disturbing nonetheless.
3. How can I report any information or ask questions?
If you have any information or questions related to this case, you can contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office Project Safe Childhood hotline at (617) 748-3274. Alternatively, you can reach out to Shrewsbury High School Principal Todd Bazydlo’s office at (508) 841-8800.