Former doctor David Scanlan, III pleaded guilty in federal court today to child pornography distribution charges. A former physician in training in pediatric oncology at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Scanlan was charged last week in a one count criminal information.
U.S. District Judge John E. Jones, III accepted the plea, adjudicated Scanlan guilty of the charge and ordered a Presentence Report. Judge Jones warned that the plea agreement is not binding on the court, and that he can sentence Scanlan up to the maximum of 20 years in federal prison.
Scanlan released pending sentencing, but was ordered that he be confined to his home in Virginia under electronic monitoring, except for approved absences such as employment and medical appointments.
Formal sentencing likely will take place this summer.