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N. Belle Vernon man faces child porn trial
A North Belle Vernon man accused in a child pornography case faces a trial in Westmoreland County Court.
Aaron Stoneking, 32, of 402 Fayette St., waived his right to a preliminary hearing Monday on two counts of distribution of child pornography, 18 counts of possession of child pornography and one count of criminal use of a communication facility.
The charges stem from an investigation by the state Attorney General's office alleging Stoneking shared two pornographic video files between Jan. 23 and 28 portraying sex acts involving boys ranging in age from 8 to 12.
Prosecutors allege Stoneking possessed 18 video files depicting children younger than 18 engaging in “prohibited sexual acts.”
In a March 14 search of Stone-king's residence, agents allegedly discovered two dozen assault rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition, two defused grenades and a military projectile. The Allegheny County Bomb Squad was called to the scene.
Agent Chelsy Santoro, who was involved in Stoneking's arrest, referred questions to Deputy Attorney General Anthony Marmo. Marmo said via phone that no charges have been filed for the weapons, pending further investigation.
Stoneking appeared before Magisterial District Judge Charles Christner in West Newton along with his attorney, Justin Schantz of Greensburg.
Clean-shaven and wearing a tie and sport coat, Stoneking declined comment afterward. He remained free on $15,000 bond, which was posted March 18.
“Of course, this is an ongoing investigation and if there's something we feel we need to bring to the court's attention, we'll provide it through the normal court procedures,” Schantz said after Stoneking waived his right to a preliminary hearing.
When asked if his client was being treated fairly, Schantz said: “My client is being treated as the system requires.”
Stoneking's preliminary arraignment is scheduled May 14.
Rick Bruni Jr. is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be reached at rbruni@tribweb.com or 724-684-2635.
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