Saline County Man Sentenced to 9 Years for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material

James Troy Martin pleaded guilty to two counts of receipt of child pornography.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:47am

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A 51-year-old Saline County, Illinois man named James Troy Martin was sentenced to 9 years in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of receiving child sexual abuse material. Authorities say Martin received at least two images of child sexual abuse material depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct between February and April 2024.

Why it matters

The exploitation of children through the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material is a serious crime that causes ongoing trauma and suffering for the victims. This sentencing highlights law enforcement's commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting vulnerable children from further victimization.

The details

According to court documents, James Troy Martin, of Carrier Mills, Illinois, admitted to receiving child sexual abuse material on multiple occasions in early 2024. U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft stated that 'Every download, share, or receipt of child pornography revictimizes those innocent children, prolonging their trauma and fueling a marketplace built on their suffering.' Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney David Sanders prosecuted the case.

  • Martin received the child sexual abuse material between February and April 2024.

The players

James Troy Martin

A 51-year-old man from Carrier Mills, Illinois who pleaded guilty to two counts of receipt of child pornography.

Steven D. Weinhoeft

The U.S. Attorney who stated that the exploitation of children through child pornography revictimizes the victims and fuels a harmful marketplace.

Matthew Scarpino

The Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge who said this sentencing sends a clear message that those who exploit children will be held accountable.

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What they’re saying

“These are not just images. They are real children enduring horrific acts of sexual abuse and exploitation. Every download, share, or receipt of child pornography revictimizes those innocent children, prolonging their trauma and fueling a marketplace built on their suffering.”

— Steven D. Weinhoeft, U.S. Attorney

“This sentencing sends a clear message: those who exploit children by receiving child sexual abuse material will be held accountable. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting children and pursuing justice for victims. HSI will continue to work with our partners to ensure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”

— Matthew Scarpino, Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the serious consequences for those who engage in the exploitation of children through the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Law enforcement remains vigilant in identifying and prosecuting these crimes to protect vulnerable youth and hold offenders accountable for their actions.