Adult film actor Justin Heath Smith, known in the industry as Austin Wolf, has been arrested and charged with the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The Department of Justice (DOJ) made the announcement, detailing the charges and the investigation that led to Smith’s arrest.
Smith, a 43-year-old New York City resident, allegedly used the messaging app Telegram to exchange hundreds of videos depicting child sexual abuse. These videos included some of the most disturbing content imaginable, including footage of infants being abused. According to the DOJ, Smith managed a Telegram channel with over 12,000 subscribers where such material was distributed.
In March 2024, the FBI seized and searched a phone that had been exchanging CSAM with Smith’s anonymous Telegram account. Following this, an undercover FBI agent began communicating with Smith, during which Smith revealed personal details that confirmed his identity.
On April 21, 2024, the FBI executed a search warrant at Smith’s Manhattan apartment, where they found an SD card containing hundreds of videos of child pornography. Smith has been charged with one count of distribution and receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years. He also faces one count of possession of child pornography, with a maximum sentence of 10 years.
The charges against Smith are severe, reflecting the gravity of his alleged crimes. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation and urged anyone with additional information about Smith’s conduct to contact the FBI.
James Smith, FBI Assistant Director in Charge, highlighted the devastating impact of child sexual abuse material on victims, stating, “Each image is a crime scene, leaving lasting scars on innocent victims. The FBI is relentless in our pursuit of these perpetrators. We will track them down, arrest them, and ensure they face justice for the harm they cause.”
Smith’s arrest is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking on platforms like Telegram, which are often used to distribute illegal content due to their lack of stringent monitoring. The FBI and DOJ are committed to bringing offenders to justice and protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
Smith, who has nearly a million followers on social media and has gained a reputation on platforms like TikTok for his collaborations with popular creators, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. As the investigation continues, authorities are determined to uncover the full extent of Smith’s alleged activities and ensure that justice is served.
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