U. S. Attorney notes nature of child porn accusations against Carthage man, asks for no bond

A Carthage man will remain in the Greene County Jail while a federal judge decides whether he should be granted bond in a child pornography case.

During a preliminary hearing and detention hearing this morning in U. S. District Court in Springfield, an assistant U. S. attorney said James Allen Beam, 35, should be held without bond because of the nature of the allegations against him.

The defendant's illegal activities came to light after he transmitted a video file depicting a child being sodomized by an adult male to an undercover law enforcement officer. The defendant was positively identified after he transmitted a video of himself engaged in masturbation. 

The defendant was later arrested and confessed to receiving and distributing child pornography via the Internet. The defendant also indicated that he was actively exchanging communications with children. 

This Court is obligated to consider “the nature and circumstances of the offense charged, including whether the offense… involves a minor victim.

Beam's attorney, Brian Risley, argued that his client has no criminal history, except for one Carthage Police Department warrant for failure to appear for not wearing a seat belt. He noted Beam has no history of drug or alcohol abuse and no "mental health issues."

Mr. Beam has a proposed home plan that was verified by the Probation Office. It would have Mr. Beam reside with his parents so that he can make all court appearances and be more available to assist his counsel in the defense of his case. Mr. Beam would also be able to work and help to financially support his wife and children, as he was the primary wage earner for the family prior to his arrest. 

Mr. Beam will abide by all conditions of release set by the Court, including, but not limited to electronic monitoring, limitations on electronics and internet, contact with minors, travel restrictions, and any treatment the pretrial services office deems necessary. These conditions and restrictions and can assure of the safety of the community.

Judge David P. Rush took the matter under advisement.