Sheriff Blasts D.A. & Judge After Andrew Long Sentencing

“The lack of spine from all involved is appalling; to sentence this predator to our county jail and utilize county resources on a state conviction is absurd. This individual should be in a state prison, he should not be allowed unsupervised visits and work release. Child pornography is not a victimless crime! If we are not willing to protect our children, what are we willing to do?”

From the San Juan Co. Sheriff's Office:

Andrew Long, of Bloomfield, NM was sentenced today to one year, including time served at the San Juan County Adult Detention Center. Andrew is required to register as a sex offender for the entirety of his life but is expected to only serve a remaining 8 months in jail. Judge Dalley approved for Andrew to serve his time at the local detention center, receive work release and have unsupervised visits with his young children.

In December of 2016, Andrew was charged with 3 Felonies; Possession, Manufacturing and Distribution of Visual Medium of Sexual Exploitation of Children. On August 11th, 2017 Andrew was arrested again on five additional Felony charges consisting of 2 counts Manufacturing, 2 counts Distribution and 1 count Possession of Visual Medium of Sexual Exploitation of Children.

Through the investigation, over 5,800 images of child pornography that included primarily toddlers and infants under 12 months old were traced back to Mr. Long.

Andrew Long was facing up to 93 years in prison, but the District Attorney’s office accepted a guilty plea from Mr. Long on only one charge and dropped the rest. This resulted in a significant reduction from 93 years to an 11-year maximum and 1 year minimum. Andrew Long was ultimately found guilty of 1 count Possession of Visual Medium of Sexual Exploitation of Children.

Sheriff Ken Christesen has provided a statement regarding the sentencing hearing that took place this morning in Aztec District Court.

“The lack of spine from all involved is appalling; to sentence this predator to our county jail and utilize county resources on a state conviction is absurd. This individual should be in a state prison, he should not be allowed unsupervised visits and work release. Child pornography is not a victimless crime! If we are not willing to protect our children, what are we willing to do?”