Wasilla doctor charged with possessing child pornography

Michael J. Heyman, U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska - www.justice.gov
Michael J. Heyman, U.S. Attorney for the District of Alaska - www.justice.gov
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A doctor from Wasilla, Alaska, has been arrested following a federal grand jury indictment on charges of possessing child pornography. Jeffrey Sponsler, 67, who practices at the Alaska Brain Center and owns Alaska Music and Arts—a studio offering music, karate, and dance lessons for children—was charged after an investigation by law enforcement agencies.

Court documents reveal that on March 17, 2025, Sponsler allegedly possessed and accessed computer files containing child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) depicting minors under the age of 12. The FBI initiated a search of Sponsler’s residence after receiving a tip regarding his alleged possession of such materials. During the search, multiple electronic devices were seized, including computers and storage media. An initial review indicated these devices contained videos and images showing adults and minors in nude beauty contests. It is further alleged that Sponsler edited these images to focus on young girls’ genitalia and created slideshows with them.

Sponsler faces one count of possession of child pornography. His initial court appearance is scheduled for June 9, 2025, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kyle F. Reardon in the District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison; however, sentencing will be determined by a federal district judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska alongside Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office and Colonel Maurice Hughes from the Alaska State Troopers.

The investigation is being conducted by the FBI Anchorage Field Office and Alaska State Troopers. Individuals with information about Sponsler’s activities are encouraged to contact the FBI Anchorage Field Office or submit tips anonymously online.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers is handling the prosecution.

The case falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation through coordinated efforts among federal, state, and local resources.

An indictment represents an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.



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