SALT LAKE CITY — A Cedar Hills man has been found guilty by a federal jury of producing and possessing child sexual abuse material involving an 11-year-old girl. The conviction of Brent Richard Johnson, 51, took place on Wednesday, solidifying charges stemming from a harrowing investigation.
In early January 2024, a young girl reported a suspicious USB charging wall plug in her restroom at 10024 N. Oak Road West. The device had a lens resembling that of a camera and an SD card slot. Concern arose when the girl attempted to remove it, only to be met with Johnson’s angry objections, according to authorities.
Following the report, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Johnson’s home in April 2024. During their investigation, officers uncovered a hidden camera in the bathroom and seized multiple electronic devices. Disturbingly, they discovered three videos recorded in 2013, showing Johnson sexually abusing the girl while she slept.
As a result of these findings, Johnson was arrested and initially faced charges in 4th District Court that included object rape and multiple counts of aggravated sexual abuse and exploitation of a child, all classified as first-degree felonies. In October 2024, those charges were modified, and he was reduced to three counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child.
In November 2024, federal charges were brought against Johnson, leading to his conviction this week. A sentencing hearing for the federal charges is set for Feb. 9, 2026. Meanwhile, he is awaiting trial on state charges scheduled to begin on Oct. 21.
This case highlights the growing concern over the safety of children in environments where privacy can be easily compromised. Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance in recognizing and reporting suspicious behavior that could lead to further abuses.
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