A federal jury in Florida has found 56-year-old Frederick Karl Hildenbrand guilty on multiple charges related to the production and possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the United States Department of Justice.
Jury Convicts Man on 11 Charges
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida announced the conviction on May 21. Hildenbrand was found guilty on nine counts connected to producing child sexual abuse material and two counts related to possession of such material.
Investigation Began After Storage Unit Auction
According to prosecutors, Hildenbrand and his wife lived in Ohio from 2004 to 2014 before moving to Florida. Evidence presented during the trial showed that while living in Ohio, he created video recordings and electronic files involving the abuse of children, toddlers, and infants.
Officials said he later brought those materials with him to Florida and kept them inside a safe stored in a rented storage unit beginning in 2018.
The Department of Justice said the storage unit was auctioned in 2024 after payments stopped being processed due to a change in ownership at the facility. The buyer reportedly discovered tapes, files, and other disturbing items inside the safe before contacting authorities.
Undercover Operation Led to Arrest
After learning his storage unit had been auctioned, Hildenbrand reportedly contacted the company in an attempt to recover the items. Authorities said the phone call was recorded and that he was unknowingly speaking with an undercover agent.
When Hildenbrand arrived at the facility on Aug. 4, 2024, believing he would retrieve his belongings, federal agents arrested him.
Additional Evidence Found at Florida Home
Investigators later executed a search warrant at his Florida residence. According to prosecutors, authorities found additional recordings allegedly showing abuse that continued through June 2024.
Officials also claimed they recovered written material in which Hildenbrand discussed sexual interest in children and referred to himself using disturbing language.
Sentencing Scheduled for September
According to the Department of Justice, Hildenbrand faces between 15 and 30 years in federal prison for each production-related charge. He could also receive up to 20 years for each possession charge.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 22.
