Menasha Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material and Disturbing Writings
MENASHA, Wis. — A 57-year-old Wisconsin man has been sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison after federal authorities uncovered a significant cache of illicit material hidden within his home. Todd E. Grimm was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison by Senior United States District Judge William C. Griesbach on January 29, 2026, following a thorough investigation sparked by an online tip.
The investigation into Grimm began in April 2025 after law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Acting on this intelligence, authorities executed a search warrant at Grimm’s residence. During the search, investigators discovered a flash drive concealed in an envelope behind a desk drawer.
Forensic analysis of the drive revealed over 12,500 images and videos of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) that had been downloaded from the internet. In addition to the visual evidence, authorities found “stories” authored by Grimm himself. These writings vividly depicted the drugging and sexual assault of young children, adding a disturbing layer of intent and fantasy to the possession charges.
At the sentencing hearing, Judge Griesbach addressed the gravity of the offense, emphasizing the devastating impact such crimes have on victims and the necessity for a punishment that reflects that severity. While defense counsel in such cases typically argues for leniency based on lack of physical contact or personal history, the court prioritized the protection of the community and the deterrence of future crimes. The sentencing highlighted that possession is not a victimless crime; it fuels a market that necessitates the abuse of real children.
“Child pornography monetizes children being sexually abused and robbed of their innocence,” said U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel in a statement following the sentencing. “The worldwide multi-billion-dollar child pornography industry is directly supported by people like this defendant who perpetuate sexual violence against children every time they seek out, view or share these materials. Justice for those children demands that we lock up these predators.”
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in 2006 to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation. This initiative coordinates efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The investigation was conducted by the City of Menasha Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.
Following his 90-month prison term, Grimm will be subject to 15 years of supervised release. He is also required to register as a sex offender under both state and federal law, ensuring long-term monitoring after his return to the community.
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