A Stonington man made his first appearance in court today on new charges of child pornography. 30 year old Bradley E. Martin of Stonington was in court under the Illinois Department of Correction care. Martin faces 15 counts of child pornography, all while he is currently on parole.  While the charges were read against him by Judge Chris Matoush, there were audible gasps from people attending the court, and a few left the courtroom. Martin acknowledged that he understood all the charges filed against him. The State of Illinois has accused him of violating his parole by having a smart phone; using his neighbor’s wi-fi for internet, and downloading lewd pictures of underage minors both on his smart phone and on cds. The state requested bond set at $250,000, but Judge Matoush set bond at $350,000. Evidence was entered and a protective order was placed to keep the records sealed.  If Martin can place bond, he will need to not have any contact with anyone under 18, no electronic media including internet, and not to leave the state. Martin also faces the original continuance of charges from a case in 2016. Martin’s next court appearance is May 24th for a preliminary hearing.  

EDIT:  The original post had Mr. Martin's age as 38.  His correct age is 30.