A former Arkansas minor league football coach and his wife have been sentenced to a combined 30 years in federal prison after being caught in a child exploitation sting operation.
The investigation began in November 2023 when the FBI and Benton County Sheriff's Office launched an undercover operation targeting online predators, Ozarks First reported.
Benjamin Coney, 30, and Emily Grace Brinley, 26, contacted an undercover officer posing as a mother of young girls, discussing plans for abuse and arranging a meeting.
The couple was arrested upon arrival at the meeting location with incriminating items in their vehicle.
On January 15, 2025, Coney was sentenced to over 17 years in prison with 25 years of supervised release, while Brinley received a 14-year sentence with 15 years of supervision.
Both pleaded guilty to charges of online enticement of a minor in 2024. Despite their federal sentencing, the couple still faces state charges, including conspiracy to commit rape and internet stalking of a child, with hearings scheduled for January 21 and February 6.
While the federal case has concluded, the couple's state charges, which include additional offenses such as the distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material, are ongoing.
The outcome of these cases will determine whether further penalties are imposed.
© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
