Ulster County man pleads guilty to possessing child sex abuse materials

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Joseph O'Bryan, 31, of Shawangunk, faces up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child. O'Bryan was already pending sentence for a separate conviction of promoting a sexual performance by a child when he pleaded guilty to the second charge.

According to the Ulster County District Attorney, on March 20, 2024, O'Bryan pleaded guilty to promoting sexual performance by a child after being indicted on 21 counts of downloading and sharing child sex abuse materials. The New York State Police conducted a search warrant in 2020 and then two days before his sentencing, on May 29, State Police conducted a search warrant on his electronics, again, finding he was in possession of over 280 images and videos of child sex abuse materials.

"Joseph O’Bryan represents the nightmare for parents and the wellbeing of children in any community," Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel C. Nneji said. "His conduct directly contributes to the exploitation and trafficking of children; it also takes a toll on law enforcement who must be ever vigilant to serve and protect the children of our community – I am eternally grateful for their dedication and effectiveness."

Based on the violation from the first plea and his conviction for the new charges, O'Bryan must register as a sex offender for both felony convictions. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Wednesday, Dec. 18.