MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A 32-year-old La Rue man has pleaded guilty to four felony counts of Illegal Use of a Minor in Nudity-Oriented Material or Performance.
Phillip William Vanscoy entered his plea in open court, admitting to the collection of illicit materials depicting children in sexual acts.
The investigation originated from a cyber tip provided by the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a national network that monitors digital communications for content involving the sexual abuse of minors. Detectives from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Matt Bayles, successfully linked the digital evidence to Vanscoy’s phone.
Prosecuting Attorney Grogan stated that the case against Vanscoy was robust, leading to the guilty plea. “Using children for sexual gratification is among the most despicable acts imaginable,” Grogan said. “Our work here will undoubtedly send this man to prison and, when he eventually gets out, he’ll be a registered sex offender for 25 years.”
Both the prosecution and defense counsel have recommended a sentence of 10 to 12 years in prison. Grogan acknowledged the efforts of Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Mark R. Weaver, who led the prosecution, and detectives Katie Barber and Christy Utley for their investigative work.
Vanscoy, who is married with three young children, is currently awaiting a final sentencing hearing, which will be presided over by Common Pleas Court Judge Todd Anderson.