Florida Man Sentenced After Traveling to Upstate New York To Meet a Child for Sex

A Florida man is facing nearly a decade behind bars after federal officials say he traveled to New York intending to meet a child for sex and brought illegal material with him.

Nearly 9-Year Prison Sentence and Long-Term Supervision

Michael Fegley Jr., 32, was sentenced on April 27, 2026, to 108 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release.

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In addition to prison time, he was ordered to pay $25,000 in restitution, along with other financial penalties, and will be required to register as a sex offender upon release.

Travel From Florida to New York Led to Arrest

According to federal authorities, Fegley traveled from Florida to the Northern District of New York with the intent to engage in sexual activity with someone he believed to be a 13-year-old child.

Investigators say that intent ultimately led to his arrest and federal charges.

Thousands of Illegal Files Brought Across State Lines

When he entered his guilty plea, Fegley admitted that he had approximately 1,000 images and videos depicting child sexual abuse material, which he had obtained online and transported with him.

Officials say the volume of material added to the seriousness of the case.

Federal Officials Emphasize Public Safety

Federal prosecutors and investigators stressed that the sentence reflects the severity of the crimes and the potential danger posed.

They say cases like this remain a top priority, especially when individuals cross state lines with the intent to harm a child.

Multiple Agencies Worked the Investigation

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the New York State Police, with prosecution handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

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Part of a Broader Effort to Protect Children

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those involved in the exploitation of children, while also working to protect victims and prevent future crimes.