SOMERSWORTH — A 75-year-old local man was found guilty on multiple charges including possession of child sexual abuse images, according to the Somersworth Police Department.
Donald LaFleur faced a multi-day jury trial and was convicted on Jan. 24 in Strafford County Superior Court.
The jury found LaFleur guilty on 19 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), one count of resisting arrest, and one count of attempted falsifying physical evidence.
The investigation leading to LaFleur’s conviction began in June 2021, following a Cybertip.
The Somersworth Police, alongside the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (NH ICAC), which included the Strafford County Sheriff’s Office, Portsmouth Police, Amherst Police, and New Hampshire State Police, executed a search warrant at LaFleur’s home.
Upon further investigation, it was discovered that LaFleur had created a living space above his place of employment.
Despite being warned not to return to the premises as a second warrant was being pursued, LaFleur was apprehended while attempting to access the upper floor of his workplace.
During the search, NH ICAC members discovered multiple electronic devices.
A digital forensic examination revealed numerous images of apparent CSAM.
Following his conviction, LaFleur was released on bail.
He awaits a sentencing hearing scheduled for March 29.
The possession of child sexual abuse images is considered a Class A felony in New Hampshire, carrying a potential prison sentence of 7 ½ to 15 years and a fine of up to $4,000.
Attempted falsifying physical evidence is a Class B felony, punishable by 3 ½ to 7 years in prison and a fine of up to $4,000.
The charge of resisting arrest is a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Detective Captain John Sunderland of the Criminal Investigations Division issued the press release detailing the conviction and subsequent charges.
