A federal grand jury in Boston has indicted Robert Burnham, 44, of Gloucester, on charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child sexual abuse material. Burnham was arrested in September 2025 following a criminal complaint and is currently detained while awaiting arraignment in federal court.
According to charging documents, authorities allege that between June 11, 2024, and October 4, 2024, Burnham coerced a 13-year-old girl into engaging in sexually explicit acts for the purpose of creating images and videos. These materials were reportedly transmitted to him through social media platforms. Additionally, it is alleged that on April 28, 2025, Burnham knowingly possessed files containing child sexual abuse material.
The charge of sexual exploitation of a minor carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and could result in supervised release for at least five years or up to life, as well as a fine up to $250,000. The possession charge allows for up to 20 years imprisonment with similar terms for supervised release and fines. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on applicable U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced the indictment along with Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. Several law enforcement agencies contributed to the investigation including the Harper County Sheriff’s Office, FBI Kansas City office, Lincoln Police Department, and Gloucester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allegra Flamm from the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
“The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
