C. Falls man guilty of youth picture scheme

A 27-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of sexual abuse of children.

John McFadden approached a 15-year-old boy in March and asked if he would send revealing photos to a girl named “Sara” for money.

The boy then emailed the girl, who actually was McFadden. He was told that he would receive $5 per picture he sent. After sending pictures, “Sara” would text back that McFadden would give him the money.

The boy later told police he sent six or seven pictures and was paid by McFadden each time. He said McFadden told him to “keep it under the radar” because if anyone found out, a lot of people would be in trouble.

During his hearing Thursday, McFadden admitted that he paid the boy for the pictures, but denied ever receiving any.

In exchange for McFadden pleading guilty, a second felony charge of sexual abuse of children was dropped. The Flathead County Attorney’s Office will recommend a suspended sentence of 10 years.

His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 20.