posted 09-10-2009 03:36 PM            

MERZ, Robert P.
Male
Cau.
Y.O.B.: 1963
Residence: Philadelphia, PA.
Offense: Aggravated Indecent Assault
Date of Previous Conviction: 5/26/1993

Merz was convicted of; advertising, transporting,receiving and possessing child pornography.
Merz was charged in a third superceding indictment in Oct. 2008, and sentenced in May 2009.

Evidence was presented at trial established that in Feb. 2007, Merz's home was searched, and computers, DVDs and CDs were seized. Trial evidence showed that upon review of the seized materials, investigators discovered HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of minors as young as toddlers. Some of the images depicted violent sexual acts being committed against the victims.

In addition, evidence introduced at trial revealed that Merz used numerous online technologies to receive and transport the images. Investigators testified that Merz created and administered an online group that was dedicated to trading images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of minors. The private online group had members from around the world who were handpicked by Merz.Testimony showed that the group could only be accessed by using a password and was established not only to trade images and videos of minors, but also members could discuss their common interest in children.

MERZ HAD TWO PRIOR PENNSYLVANIA STATE CONVICTIONS FOR THE FORCED MOLESTATION OF TWO YOUNG GIRLS ON SEPERATE OCCASIONS, MAKING HIM ELIGIBLE FOR THE LIFE SENTENCE.

In reviewing Pennsylvania's Sexually Violent Predator Treatment and Management Standards, they seem comprehensive and includes Clinical Polygraph Testing every six months.

I know that Pennsylvania has many PCSOT qualified examiners. I'm sure there are some unknown factors involved here that would allow this predator to freely operate a global organization.

I hope some members from Pennsylvania will chime in here to let us know how this could happen.