Smyrna, Delaware – Former police officer Michael Anthony Kealty, who is facing charges of distributing and possessing child pornography, has had the deadline for his indictment extended by federal prosecutors. Kealty, who has been in custody since his arrest in October, has retained New York Attorney Todd Spodek, known for his involvement in high-profile cases, including that of Anna Sorokin, the fake heiress who inspired the Netflix series “Inventing Anna.” Spodek has also represented law enforcement officers facing charges, such as the Paterson, New Jersey officers accused of using excessive force. The defense attorney emphasized the presumption of innocence, stating that he will leave no stone unturned in his investigation.
According to court records, Kealty is accused of sharing explicit material involving a prepubescent girl through his Snapchat account. The documents also reveal disturbing online statements made by Kealty, where he expressed a love of rape and used vulgar and racist language when referring to women and girls. The case originated from a tip received by the FBI from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, leading to Kealty’s arrest.
Kealty’s previous attorney attempted to secure his release to the custody of his wife and parents, but the request was denied by Magistrate Judge Sherry R. Fallon. Assistant U.S. Attorney Briana Knox argued against the release, pointing out that the alleged crimes occurred under Kealty’s wife’s nose and while he was a police officer and in the Air Force Reserve.
The indictment deadline has been extended twice, with the most recent extension being agreed upon by federal prosecutors and defense attorneys, pushing the deadline to January 26, 2024. Magistrate Judge Laura D. Hatcher granted the request. It was on this day that it was revealed that Kealty had retained Todd Spodek as his defense attorney.
Todd Spodek, known for his work in high-profile cases, has previously represented clients involved in stalking allegations, trials related to Jeffrey Epstein’s confidant Ghislaine Maxwell, and the R. Kelly sex trafficking trial. He has defended clients facing various charges, including felony murder, assault, robbery, and predatory sexual assault. Spodek emphasized that as a criminal defense lawyer, he represents individuals charged with a crime, without passing judgment on their actions.
Kealty’s case highlights the serious charges he faces and the need for a fair legal process to determine his guilt or innocence. The investigation and legal proceedings will continue, with Todd Spodek leading the defense.