CHILD ABUSE/CHILD PORNOGRAPHY ARREST - M. RANSIER

DEFENDANT:      Michael E. Ransier (72 years of age)
                             Reading, PA

CHARGES:      Sexual Abuse of Children - Possession of Child Pornography (F3)
                        Criminal Use of a Communications Facility (F3)
                        

DETAILS OF INCIDENT:

The Berks County District Attorney’s Detective unit initiated a criminal investigation after receiving a complaint from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (N.C.M.E.C.), involving digital files of suspected Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) that had been uploaded and shared on multiple occasions utilizing the internet/web application “Amazon/Amazon Photos’.

As part of this investigation, investigators identified the Internet Protocol (IP) Address utilized to upload these files. An administrative subpoena was served upon the internet service provider, and the IP address was linked to the defendant.

Detectives executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence located in Exeter Township, Berks County (PA). Numerous electronic devices including mobile phones, tablets, iPads, and a laptop computer were seized during this search.

The defendant was later interviewed by investigators and admitted to viewing and possessing images of CSAM.

Forensic analysis was conducted on the defendant’s electronic devices by the Berks County District Attorney’s Forensic Services Unit. As a result, hundreds (100’s) of digital images of CSAM were located.

On Monday, June 16, 2025, the Defendant was charged with Sexual Abuse of Children - Possession of Child Pornography, and Criminal Use of a Communications Facility.

On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the Defendant surrendered to Detectives. The defendant was transported to the Central Processing Center located at the Berks County Courthouse where he was released on $25,000 unsecured bail after his preliminary arraignment.

As in every criminal case, the fact that an arrest occurred or a criminal complaint has been filed is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.