News – Sheridan Media
A Sheridan man changed his pleas on two felony charges Thursday in Fourth Judicial District Court. Sheridan Media’ Ron Richter has the details.
Between December 26, 2023 and October 13, 2024, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation received five Cybertips that indicated a cellular phone in Sheridan was used to download and receive multiple files of child pornography. Further investigation led to the discovery that the owner of the cell phone was 33-year-old Michael Sandvig of Sheridan.
On January 15, 2025, DCI agents interviewed Sandvig and searched his residence. Agents found multiple images and videos on Sandvig’s cell phone that depicted sexual abuse of minors. During questioning, Sandvig admitted to receiving, possessing and distributing child pornography through his Telegram account. He also told investigators that he preferred infants and toddlers when viewing child pornography.
At a change of plea hearing Thursday in District Court, Sandvig pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. Sheridan County Deputy and Prosecuting Attorney Christopher LaRosa said that he is recommending a sentence of 2 ½ to 8 in prison and that the defendant, at sentencing, can argue for a more lenient sentence.
District Court Judge Ben Kirven ordered that a presentence investigation report be completed by the Department of Corrections Division of Probation and Parole and said sentencing would be set 60 to 75 days from Thursday’s hearing.
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Last modified: October 25, 2025