A convicted sex offender from Potsdam is facing a minimum of 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to new child pornography charges.
Richard LaPage, 51, admitted in court on Monday to distributing, receiving, and possessing child pornography. The charges stem from a federal investigation into his online activity between December 2023 and October 2024, during which LaPage used social networking apps to send and receive explicit content involving children.
Federal agents recovered more than 150 images and videos from four of LaPage’s electronic devices. He was previously convicted in 2010 of attempted criminal sexual act in the first degree, a New York State offense involving an attempt to engage in sexual contact with a child under the age of 13.
“LaPage, already a registered sex offender, again engaged in disgusting criminal conduct,” said Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III, who promised aggressive prosecution for repeat offenders.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the New York State Police Computer Crimes Unit led the investigation, with help from the Potsdam Police Department and the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2026, before Chief U.S. District Judge Brenda K. Sannes. Due to his prior conviction, LaPage faces:
- A mandatory minimum of 15 years for distribution and receipt
- 10 years minimum for possession
- Up to 40 years in prison
- Fines of up to $250,000
- Mandatory restitution and property forfeiture
- Lifetime sex offender registration
HSI Buffalo Field Office Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan called LaPage a “repeat child predator” and said the agency will continue to work with local partners to protect children from sexual exploitation.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide effort by the Department of Justice to combat online child exploitation. More information is available at justice.gov/psc.
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