Ohio children’s guardian charged with child porn possession

CLEVELAND (AP) — A northeast Ohio attorney who represents children’s interests in delinquency and custody cases has been charged federally with possession of child pornography.

James Paterson, 49, of Lorain was in custody today after being arrested by FBI agents. A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday to determine his bond. An FBI affidavit says Paterson told agents during a search of his home there were pornographic images of children on his computer. The affidavit says Paterson denied having sexual activity with children but wouldn’t take a polygraph test.

According to the affidavit, agents focused on Paterson because of his online activity. Paterson has been a guardian since 2013 and had four active cases, a Lorain County Domestic Relations Court official said.