DOJ Considers Federal Charges in Pedophile Case
The Department of Justice is weighing the possibility of federal charges against Gregory Cornman, a former substitute teacher and self-identified Satanist, who received a relatively light sentence from a California court for child pornography offenses. Bill Esseri, the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, informed the Daily Caller News Foundation about the situation.
In October, a court in San Luis Obispo County sentenced Cornman to eight years in prison for possessing and distributing thousands of images and videos of child pornography. However, due to California law, he will only serve half of that sentence. Esseri indicated a readiness to step in and reassess the case when contacted for comments.
“A four-year sentence for such horrific acts is simply unacceptable and illustrates California’s failure to protect public safety,” Esseri stated. “I have instructed my office to review this case to see if federal charges can be filed, ensuring this individual stays in custody.”
Authorities came across Cornman engaging in inappropriate acts in his vehicle back in March, which led to an investigation that revealed even more alarming details about his intentions. Over 3,000 videos and images, many depicting child abuse, were discovered on his devices, alongside messages indicating his intention to acquire a windowless van to abduct children.
Reportedly, Cornman identified himself as part of an online “evil pedo brotherhood” and shared sadistic fantasies with others involved in such disturbing activities. There were also claims that he found the sound of children crying to be “music to my ears.” Police found concerning items in his home, such as sex toys and a cage that could not be opened from inside.
In a message, Kornman expressed gratitude to “Father Satan” for his transformation into a sadistic figure. He was under the influence of multiple hard drugs at the time of his arrest.
Cornman had previously worked with both kindergarten and middle school students in the Bonita Unified School District. In California, specific laws allow certain offenders to receive double credit for time spent in custody, effectively halving their sentences. This system, expanded under former Governor Jerry Brown in 2011, applies to registered sex offenders, along with those with serious violent felonies.
Prosecutors revealed that Cornman was on various forms of supervision when he committed the child pornography offenses. Since he accepted responsibility by pleading guilty, the district attorney’s office recommended an eight-year sentence, which was five years less than the maximum allowed. The district attorney described the eventual sentence as “unfortunate.”
“This sentence will keep him away from our community for just four years, during which we’ll protect our children from his intentions, but he will be released afterwards,” the district attorney remarked. “We continue to prioritize the prosecution of those who exploit children and safeguard the vulnerable.” No comment was provided from the district attorney’s office in response to inquiries.
