Milton Man Convicted of Child Exploitation Crimes

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Yesterday afternoon, a federal jury convicted Milton resident Robert F. Matlack, 79, of attempted commercial sex trafficking and attempted enticement of a minor for sex.  The verdict was announced by Christopher P. Canova, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

At trial, the government presented evidence that, in July 2015, Matlack communicated online with someone who turned out to be an undercover law enforcement officer.  The purpose of Matlack’s contact was to meet a 12-year-old child for sexual activity.  During trial, the jury heard evidence of Matlack e-mailing and text messaging his desires for a 12-year-old child.  Matlack was arrested when he arrived at the arranged meeting location in Milton, Florida, where he thought he would meet a 12-year-old child.  He possessed $180 to pay for the illicit sex acts.  Also seized from his vehicle were blister packs of Viagra.

For the attempted commercial sex trafficking charge, Matlack faces a minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.  For the attempted enticement of a minor charge, Matlack faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.  The sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 23, 2016, at 12:30 p.m.

The case was investigated by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, Pensacola Police Department, and other agencies that are part of the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.

The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  The office strives to protect and serve the citizens of the Northern District of Florida through the ethical, vigorous, and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States, to defend the national security, to improve the safety and quality of life in our communities through the protection of civil rights, and to protect the public funds and financial assets of the United States.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website.  For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

For more information, contact:
Amy Alexander, Public Information Officer
(850) 216-3854, amy.alexander@usdoj.gov