FORT MYERS, Fla. — A Port Charlotte man pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, according to federal prosecutors.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida said Ford, 34, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and could face up to life behind bars. A sentencing date has not been scheduled.
According to the plea agreement, investigators said Ford communicated with a minor through a social media app in October 2025 and asked the child to send nude photos and videos. Prosecutors said Ford also sent a nude photo of himself to the minor.
The investigation began after the child’s parent reported seeing the conversations and explicit images on the minor’s cellphone, authorities said.
Investigators later interviewed Ford, who admitted to exchanging inappropriate messages and explicit images with the child, according to prosecutors.
Federal officials said a search of Ford’s cellphone uncovered the social media account used to communicate with the minor, along with images and videos of the child engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2026 Cox Media Group
