Man Sentenced To 20 Years After Abusing Child At Furry Convention

A Texas man who participated in the furry subculture was sentenced Monday to 20 years in federal prison after transporting a minor to a furry convention in Georgia, where he sexually abused the child, according to the Justice Department. 

Joseph Robertson, 37, pleaded guilty to transporting the minor from Frisco, Texas, to Atlanta for the convention. In addition to the 20-year prison sentence, he was ordered to serve a lifetime of supervised release. 

Robertson was part of the furry community, a subculture centered on anthropomorphic animal characters whose members often create animal personas, known as “fursonas,” and wear elaborate costumes. Some furry conventions also include adult-oriented programming and vendors. Robertson commissioned a red-and-white full-body animal costume representing his “fursona” before traveling to the convention with the child, NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reports.

“While at the convention, Robertson sexually abused the child by engaging in acts that would constitute child molestation and sodomy under Georgia State law,” the Department of Justice said. “Additionally, Robertson purchased sexual stimulants and devices at the convention, and commissioned artwork depicting his furry persona engaged in sex acts with the minor victim.”

U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs called Robertson’s conduct “depraved.”

“Most children’s experiences with people costumed as animals comes in the context of fun encounters in theme parks,” Combs said. “This defendant turned a furry costume into a nightmare of sexual abuse.” 

Combs also faulted the convention itself, saying he was disturbed that a child was even present in such an atmosphere. 

“It shocks the conscience that a child was allowed into a convention where adults were dressed up as furry animals and sex devices were being sold,” Combs said. “Not one person in that convention contacted the authorities to protect the child. Every child deserves security, dignity, and a community that stands fiercely in their defense. Protecting children is one of our most solemn responsibilities, and we will act ferociously against anyone who threatens their safety.”

The Justice Department did not disclose the child’s identity, age, or gender.

The case was prosecuted as part of the Justice Department’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, which targets the exploitation and abuse of children.