Actor facing child porn sentencing found dead of apparent suicide

On Behalf of | Feb 5, 2018 | Sex Crimes

A 35-year-old actor who was best known for his role on the television show Glee appears to have taken his own life just weeks before he was to learn his sentence for possession of child pornography. According to the Los Angeles coroner, he hanged himself.

Mark Salling, who played “Puck” on the hit show, was arrested in December 2015 by members of a special task force of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) that investigates internet crimes involving children. They reportedly found over 50,000 pornographic images of children on his computer and a thumb drive.

Salling was indicted on federal charges of receipt and possession of the illegal materials the following May. He reached a deal with federal prosecutors in which he admitted to possession only. Prosecutors were planning to ask for a four-to-seven year prison term. Salling would also have had to register as a sex offender, which would have limited where he could live, and pay restitution.

The actor was found in a riverbed in a remote area not far from his home. Authorities didn’t say whether he left a note behind or who or what prompted police to search for him.

Fans of Glee know that Salling was the second actor who played a key role in the show to die. Cory Monteith succumbed to what was ruled an accidental drug overdose in 2013.

Charges involving child pornography can carry serious consequences that can follow a person for the rest of his or her life. Regardless of why you or a loved one is facing such charges, it’s essential to seek guidance from an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney.

Source: USA Today, “Mark Salling death officially ruled suicide, Los Angeles coroner says,” Maria Puente, Feb. 01, 2018

Watch how we can help you with your legal situation

Archives

Do You Have a Defense?

Do You Have a Defense?

Avvo Clients' Choice 2018 Criminal Defense    Avvo Clients' Choice 2018 Criminal Defense

Charles Waechter | Lawyer.com Premium
FindLaw Network