A Frisco man was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison Monday after pleading guilty to transporting a minor to a “furry convention,” where he assaulted them and commissioned artwork depicting it.
Joseph Ray Robertson was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard Snell, who also imposed a lifetime of supervised release, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Texas.
The term “furry” describes a subculture or community in which people create and dress up as animal characters with human personalities and traits, according to the Furscience website. Furry conventions are a place for these like-minded individuals to gather.
The 37-year-old transported the minor from Frisco to Georgia in May 2024 for the convention. Robertson commissioned a costume for his furry persona, according to the statement, before performing sexually exploitative acts with the minor.
“Most children’s experiences with people costumed as animals comes in the context of fun encounters,” U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs said. “This defendant turned a furry costume into a nightmare.”
According to information presented in court, Robertson also purchased sexual stimulants and devices at the convention.
His case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Frisco police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marisa Miller.
The investigation was part of the Project Safe Childhood initiative, which was launched nationwide in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.
“Every child deserves security, dignity, and a community that stands fiercely in their defense,” Combs said. “Protecting children is one of our most solemn responsibilities, and we will act ferociously against anyone who threatens their safety.”