Starting in early 2025, Emper engaged in online communications with someone he believed was a 12-year-old, who was actually an undercover FBI agent.

A federal jury in southern Illinois convicted Nicholas Emper, a 44-year-old man from Sea Isle City, New Jersey, of attempted solicitation of child pornography.

The FBI’s Springfield division investigated the case, with the prosecution taking place in Benton, Illinois.

Emper faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing set for a date in January.

During online exchanges, Emper requested child sexual abuse material, claiming he was role-playing when questioned by investigators.