Joseph Ray Robertson, 37, of Frisco, pleaded guilty to transportation of minors and was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Richard Schell on July 13. Schell also imposed lifetime supervised release on the defendant.
According to information presented in court, in May of 2024, Robertson, “a furry enthusiast,” transported a minor from Frisco to Atlanta, Georgia for a furry convention. According to information from the Department of Justice “DOJ,” the term “furry” refers to a subculture of enthusiasts of anthropomorphic (human-like) animals in which fans create animal characters with human personalities and traits. Further, the prosecuting agency presented, Robertson commissioned an elaborate, custom-made costume to further facilitate his furry persona.
While at the convention, Robertson sexually abused the child by engaging in acts that would constitute child molestation and sodomy under Georgia State law. Additionally, Robertson purchased sexual stimulants and devices at the convention, and commissioned artwork depicting his furry persona engaged in sex acts with the minor victim, the court record reveals.
“This defendant’s actions were depraved and absolutely justify every day of the imposed 20-year sentence,” said Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Most children’s experiences with people costumed as animals comes in the context of fun encounters in theme parks. This defendant turned a furry costume into a nightmare of sexual abuse.
“It shocks the conscience that a child was allowed into a convention where adults were dressed up as furry animals and sex devices were being sold. Not one person in that convention contacted the authorities to protect the child. Every child deserves security, dignity, and a community that stands fiercely in their defense. Protecting children is one of our most solemn responsibilities, and we will act ferociously against anyone who threatens their safety.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the DOJ to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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