KC Reporter

A Columbia, Missouri man who works for the TSA appeared in federal court after being charged with attempted production of child pornography. Daniel P. Meenehan, 64, was charged on July 24, 2025.

The investigation started on October 29, 2024, when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents in St. Louis received information from the Miller County Sheriff's Office about a minor sending nude photographs to an adult male for money. The investigation revealed that Meenehan made over 41 transactions with minor victims in exchange for nude images over one year.

"The charges contained in the complaint are simply accusations and not evidence of guilt," stated officials. "Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence."

If convicted under federal statutes, Meenehan could face up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. However, the sentencing will be determined by the court based on advisory guidelines and other factors after a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Turner is prosecuting this case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, and Miller County Sheriff’s Office.

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006 to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The program aims to locate and prosecute individuals who exploit children and rescue victims.

For more information about Project Safe Childhood or Internet safety education, visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.