Local man federally charged with sexual exploitation of a minor
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IDAHO FALLS — A local man has been federally indicted by a grand jury with crimes related to the coercion and sexual exploitation of a minor.
Richard Alan Meginness, 36, is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor child and one count of coercion and enticement.
Meginness’ indictment states in mid-April, he coerced or enticed a minor born in 2012 to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating a visual depiction of said conduct. Meginness is accused of distributing the explicit content digitally.
The indictment also states that between May 2025 and May 2026, Meginness allegedly used the internet to distribute content displaying lewd or lascivious conduct with a minor.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin K. Packet is seeking the forfeiture of any property Meginness obtained that relates to the promotion of or facilitation of the two felonies, including unrecovered cash proceeds.
A representative for Upper Valley Tumbling, an All-Star cheer coaching facility for girls, confirmed that Meginness was involved with the business, although it is unclear in what capacity.
Information on the case is limited.
If found guilty, Meginness may face up to life in prison and be required to pay fines of up to $500,000.