Reported by Staff
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In federal court, Robert Lee Johnson, III, aged 39, admitted guilt to two counts of producing child pornography. This announcement was made by John P. Heekin, the United States Attorney for Florida’s Northern District.
U.S. Attorney Heekin commented, “This individual exploited a minor, but due to the skillful investigation by our dedicated state and federal law enforcement, coupled with the vigorous prosecution efforts from our office, he will face time in federal prison. Ensuring that predators like this are incarcerated is crucial for the safety of our children.”
Initial Arrest Details
Johnson’s arrest occurred on September 17, 2025, after the victim disclosed having been involved in a sexual relationship with him over a span of four years, beginning when she was just 14. An investigation by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office revealed that they had engaged in sexual activities at his home and in various hotels, with Johnson capturing videos on at least two different occasions.
State charges of sexual battery of a minor, lewd and lascivious battery of a minor, and directing the sexual performance of a child were filed, along with a sworn complaint alleging 20 additional charges related to sexual battery and child pornography. He was federally indicted for six counts of production of child pornography.
For each count, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment, and up to 30 years imprisonment. Johnson will be required to register as a sex offender.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, 2026, at 11:30 am, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie Utt.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.