A Chicopee resident was arrested on November 12, 2025, for allegedly distributing child sexual abuse material. Thomas Selby, age 46, faces one count of distribution of child pornography according to a criminal complaint. Selby was taken into custody and appeared in federal court in Springfield the same day. After a detention hearing on November 14, he was released under certain conditions.
Charging documents state that Selby was identified in early 2024 as an active member of a group focused on child sexual abuse material using an internet-based messaging and social media platform. During searches conducted on November 12, authorities reportedly recovered various electronic devices from Selby’s person and residence, including smartphones. An initial forensic review of one phone allegedly found multiple files consistent with child sexual abuse material and evidence of participation in several groups sharing such content. Authorities continue to review the seized devices.
The public is encouraged to contact law enforcement at 617-748-3274 or USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov with any information related to this case.
The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to twenty years in prison, along with supervised release ranging from five years to life and a potential fine up to $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations New England, announced the arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Barnico, Jr., is prosecuting the case.
“This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims.” For more information about Project Safe Childhood visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Authorities remind that all details contained in charging documents are allegations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
