Former Wisconsin Transplant Surgeon Sentenced to Six Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography
Calvin Eriksen, a 47-year-old former transplant surgeon previously employed at Children’s Wisconsin, has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for the distribution of child sexual abuse material. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Brett H. Ludwig following a comprehensive investigation that uncovered hundreds of graphic files in the surgeon’s possession.
The inquiry began when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received cybertips regarding a Kik messaging account involved in sharing illegal content. Homeland Security Investigations traced the activity to Eriksen, executing warrants at his home and workplace. Agents discovered a collection of over 350 photos and 60 videos, which prosecutors described as depicting the abuse of infants and toddlers.
During the proceedings, questions arose regarding how a medical professional entrusted with saving children’s lives could simultaneously engage in their exploitation. While the defense highlighted Eriksen’s history of medical service and surgical expertise in an effort to mitigate the sentence, the court prioritized the severe nature of the abuse material.
In addition to the 72-month prison term, Eriksen was ordered to serve 15 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender. Children’s Wisconsin, which terminated Eriksen’s employment immediately upon his arrest, stated that they cooperated fully with federal authorities and confirmed that there was no evidence suggesting any hospital patients were victims of his crimes.
people.com
people.com
