In two separate cases, investigations led by Immigration and Customs Enforcement have resulted in the capture, indictment and sentencing of two sexual predators. Both U.S. citizens, a Michigan orthodontist and a Florida man, now face prison terms for the sexual exploitation of children and animals.
Grand Rapids Orthodontist Thomas Shannon, 44, exploited at least 18 children online between 2019 and 2024.
According to authorities, Shannon was known by Michigan police, having lost his license to practice for child sexual abuse materials. However, while out on bail for the child sexual abuse material case in the State of Michigan, authorities say that Shannon continued his actions. Tracking an IP address to Shannon’s yacht in Ottawa County, authorities found he had sexually exploited another child. As victims came forward, investigators were able to connect Shannon to 16 additional cases of online sexual exploitation with victims ranging in ages from 12 to 17. He now faces 60 years in prison.
MICHIGAN ORTHODONTIST GETS 60 YEARS FOR SERIAL CHILD EXPLOITATION CRIMES AFTER ICE PROBE
U.S. citizen Thomas Shannon, 44, was sentenced for exploiting numerous 12- to 17-year-old children online between 2019 and 2024.
Police discovered his crimes when a NC 16-year-old reported… pic.twitter.com/UTwF45craP
— U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (@ICEgov) March 18, 2026
“Protecting children from exploitation is at the heart of Homeland Security Investigations’ mission,” said HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “This offender preyed on vulnerable children, but through extensive collaboration between HSI and our law enforcement partners, we were able to identify victims and ensure the defendant was held accountable. We hope this sentence delivers some measure of justice to his victims. We relentlessly investigate these crimes and tirelessly pursue those who exploit children.”
In a separate case, led by ICE Homeland Security Investigations, Francisco Javier Ravelo of Florida was found guilty of making monkey snuff pornography.
“Homeland Security Investigations pieced together the case that led to Ravelo’s guilty plea,” said ICE Director Todd M. Lyons. “He personally distributed more than 40 animal crushing videos to other people, but he didn’t count on HSI being able to track him down, pull together evidence and present it to the judge. Now he knows better. I hope this serves as a warning to others who acquire or distribute this kind of content: HSI will find you, and you’ll end up in federal court just like Ravelo did.”
According to court documents, Ravelo created and administered online chat groups where he distributed violent videos of monkeys being sexually violated, burned, and mutilated—including baby monkeys. The case also led to the conviction of others, including a Tennessee woman for conspiring to make similar videos.
Due to ICE-HSI piecing together the solid evidence that led to federal convictions, two more sexual predators are now safely behind bars.
Both cases highlight the role of ICE beyond immigration enforcement, while also emphasizing the importance of federal and local partnerships.
“This investigation demonstrates how local, state and federal partners work together to identify offenders, locate victims, and hold those responsible accountable,” said Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young.
