Lowell Man Sentenced for Possessing Over 5,000 Files of Child Pornography

Steven Estrada Ramirez faces deportation after serving 5-year federal prison sentence.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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A 23-year-old man living in Lowell, Massachusetts has been sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for possessing over 5,000 files of child pornography on his cell phone. Prosecutors say Estrada Ramirez also had a USB drive containing over 700 video files depicting child sexual abuse material. He will face 5 years of supervised release after his prison term and is subject to deportation.

Why it matters

The possession and distribution of child pornography is a serious crime that exploits and traumatizes vulnerable children. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and prosecute individuals engaged in these illicit activities, which have significant psychological and societal impacts.

The details

Estrada Ramirez pleaded guilty in November 2024 to charges of receipt and possession of child pornography after a federal grand jury indicted him in May of that year. Prosecutors say he participated in online chat groups used by perpetrators to share and view child sexual abuse material. At the time of his arrest, the home screen of Estrada Ramirez's cell phone depicted an image of child sex abuse material.

  • Estrada Ramirez was indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2024.
  • He pleaded guilty to the charges in November 2024.
  • He was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti Saris on March 11, 2026.

The players

Steven Estrada Ramirez

A 23-year-old man living in Lowell, Massachusetts who was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison for possessing over 5,000 files of child pornography on his cell phone.

Leah Foley

The U.S. Attorney who announced Estrada Ramirez's sentencing.

Patti Saris

The U.S. District Court Judge who handed down Estrada Ramirez's 5-year prison sentence.

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What they’re saying

“This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and prosecute individuals engaged in these illicit activities, which have significant psychological and societal impacts.”

— Leah Foley, U.S. Attorney (boston25news.com)

What’s next

Estrada Ramirez will face 5 years of supervised release after completing his 5-year prison sentence, and is subject to deportation.

The takeaway

The possession and distribution of child pornography is a serious crime that exploits vulnerable children. This case demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to identify and prosecute those engaged in these illicit activities, which have devastating psychological and societal consequences.