A former Gibson County resident, Philip Stephen Plyler, 41, now living in Fairmont, West Virginia, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Jackson, Tennessee, on charges related to child exploitation. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the indictment, which includes serious allegations against Plyler.
The indictment consists of two counts. The first charge accuses Plyler of transporting a minor across state lines with the intent for the minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The second charge alleges that Plyler traveled across state lines with the specific intention of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.
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Should Plyler be found guilty on both counts, he could be sentenced to up to life in prison. The final decision on sentencing, contingent on a conviction, lies with United States District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson, who will consider various factors, including the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. It’s important to note that the federal system does not offer parole.
The investigation leading up to the indictment was conducted by the FBI Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force and the Milan, Tennessee Police Department. The authorities have encouraged anyone with further information about the case to come forward and contact FBI Task Force Officer Dennis Mitchell.
While the charges against Plyler are severe, it is critical to remember that these are accusations. Under the U.S. legal system, Plyler is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt through the due process of law.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Josh Morrow and Christie Hopper, representing the government’s interests.
For additional information or updates on the case, the media relations team of the U.S. Attorney’s Office can be contacted via email at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Updates and news regarding the office can also be followed on their official Facebook page or on X (@WDTNNews).
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