Grand Rapids Reporter

U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, announced that Kelton Salowitz, 19, from Curtis, Michigan, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for sexually exploiting a 12-year-old child.

"We cannot undo the harm that Mr. Salowitz inflicted on children, but today’s sentence is a measure of justice for the victims and an important step to protect the community," said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. He also emphasized the risks posed by online platforms: "This case is also a reminder of the dangers that lurk online. Without sufficient guardrails, smartphones can give criminals across the United States and around the world access to our children, even inside the safety of their homes."

Salowitz admitted guilt in persuading a 12-year-old girl from another state to send him sexually explicit photos and videos via Discord on his smartphone. A video found on his phone showed a recorded livestream where he directed sexual acts performed by the child. He also solicited similar content from another 12-year-old without success and was found with child pornography featuring men assaulting children.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) advises parents with its Top 10 Tips2Protect against online predators:

1. Start an open conversation with your child.

2. Password-protect or control access to app stores and gaming downloads.

3. Set time limits for device use and establish check-in times.

4. Keep apps, games, and devices private.

5. Disable location data services on nonessential apps.

6. Discuss data permanency as online information can last indefinitely.

7. Create an agreement regarding online behavior with your child.

8. Know your child's friend lists and remove strangers.

9. Warn against chatting with unknown individuals outside games.

10. Preserve messages or media from predators as evidence for law enforcement.

Further resources are available on HSI's Know2Protect website.

The Mackinac County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations led this investigation.

This case falls under Project Safe Childhood, which aims to shield children from online exploitation through collaboration among various law enforcement agencies at different levels alongside community education efforts about such dangers.