Harper is one of three men facing felony child-porn charges based on evidence discovered on two days in January using technology developed for Internet Crimes Against Children task forces operating across the U.S.
The other two cases, involving Thomas Johnson, 79, of Franklin Twp.; and Dalton Moorhead, 28, of Deerfield Twp., are still pending in Warren County Common Pleas Court.
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On June 9, Harper pleaded guilty to 15 counts of pandering sexually oriented material.
On Wednesday, Tepe sentenced Harper to three years in prison despite pleas for leniency noting Harper was given five years to live after a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Assistant County Prosecutor John Arnold said each of the children on 15 videos found through the investigation were victims.
“This is frequently a gateway to more serious abuse,” Arnold said.
Lawyer James Bogen pointed to Harper’s cancer and lack of a felony record, while acknowledging five drunk-driving convictions. He also noted there was no mandatory prison term required and no “physical harm” came to anyone in the case.
Harper’s sister was close to tears in pleading for him to be allowed to come home after 102 days in jail, while continuing treatment. Bogen suggested in-patient treatment at a minimum-security facility.
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“I’m very ashamed of what I’ve done,” Harper said. “I’ve let everybody down in my life.”
The judge told Harper he decided prison was necessary to protect the public and children.
He said a child was victimized each time someone views or shares images such as those found on Harper’s electronic devices.
“Our society has become so dark,” Tepe said.
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