N.J. man had 2M child sex abuse files on devices stashed behind washer, dryer, cops say

Social media apps on smartphone, iPhone

Detectives found child sexual abuse material on electronic devices while executing a search warrant at Derek McDonough's residence. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media

A Plainsboro man who hid electronic devices with almost 2 million child sexual abuse images behind his washer and dryer was sentenced to 25 years in state prison this month, authorities announced Monday.

Derek McDonough, 45, was previously convicted by a jury on Feb. 21, 2024 of first-degree possession of child pornography and fourth-degree tampering with evidence, according to a joint press release from Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Eamon Blanchard of Plainsboro Township Police Department.

Superior Court Judge Thomas Abode handed down the 25-year sentence on May 15, officials said.

Following a tip about his online activities from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, detectives executed a search warrant at McDonough’s home on Sept. 1, 2022. Detectives seized multiple electronic devices from the residence hidden behind McDonough’s washer and dryer, officials said.

The devices were forensically examined, resulting in almost 2 million photos and videos of child sexual abuse material recovered, officials said.

McDonough is being housed at the Garden State Youth Correctional Facility in Chesterfield Township, according to the state Department of Corrections website.

He will be eligible for parole in 12 years.

Jackie Roman

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Jackie Roman may be reached at jroman@njadvancemedia.com.

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