When someone manipulates a child for sexual purposes, federal law takes a hard stance. The recent guilty plea of Anthony Pangallo, a previously convicted sex offender, brings this into sharp focus. This case shows how federal authorities pursue individuals who exploit minors, especially through online grooming and coercion. What is Sexual Exploitation of a Child? Sexual exploitation of a child is a serious federal crime that goes beyond simple possession of illegal materials. Under federal law, it's illegal to entice, persuade, or coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating visual depictions, like photos or videos. The law applies to activities that involve interstate commerce, meaning if the crime crosses state lines or uses the internet—which almost always does—it can be prosecuted in federal court. This allows federal authorities, like the FBI and the U.S. Attorney's Office, to step in and work with local and state law enforc...