Zachary Aaron Holderness, a 25-year-old resident of Durant, Oklahoma, has pleaded guilty to possessing obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. The charge carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a fine that could reach $250,000.
According to information provided by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Holderness admitted to knowingly possessing an image that lacked serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value. The depiction was transported through interstate or foreign commerce, including via computer, and showed or appeared to show a minor engaged in sexual intercourse.
The investigation into Holderness was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bryan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police.
The plea was accepted by U.S. Magistrate Judge D. Edward Snow in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Judge Snow ordered a presentence investigation report to be completed before sentencing.
A U.S. District Court Judge will determine Holderness’s sentence after reviewing federal sentencing guidelines and other relevant factors. Until sentencing is decided, Holderness will remain in custody with the United States Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.