A judge 's gavel is sitting on a block in a red circle.

“CHEER” STAR JERRY HARRIS FACING CHILD PORN AND ENTICING ALLEGATIONS

Michael Cohen • January 5, 2021
Under Investigation — Eau Claire, WI — Cohen Law Offices
If you chat with people online, you need to be aware of some risks - as evidenced by the recent charges brought against Jeremiah "Jerry" Harris. The star of the Netflix docuseries Cheer has been charged in a seven-count indictment that has alleged he made various sexual requests of minors online.

Harris had already been arrested in September and charged with one count of producing child pornography. A federal judge had denied him bail because he was a continuing threat to the safety of the community.

Harris Was Charged with Enticing Minors Online

The most recent indictment covers conduct that allegedly occurred over the past three years. Prosecutors allege that Harris tried to coerce minors into sending him sexually explicit videos of themselves. Prosecutors also allege that he traveled to Texas with the intent of having sex with a 15-year old. 


The investigation began when two of the minors' mothers reported the alleged conduct to the FBI. At the time, she also provided evidence of the alleged conduct to law enforcement, which began and expanded the investigation. 

Harris Is Also Facing Civil Suits

Harris also faces several civil lawsuits initiated by the alleged victims. The plaintiffs claim that Harris began attempting to sexually exploit them when they were aged 14 and 13, respectively. Some of the alleged conduct involves messages sent over social media that requested explicit pictures and videos. They claim that he tried to take advantage of his fame to manipulate them into sending him sexual content.


If convicted of the charges, Harris faces a minimum of 15 years in prison. Harris already admitted to agents searching his home that he had previously solicited sexual images from minors on several occasions.

Use Care When Talking Online

Harris’ case shows the caution that people need to use when they engage in social interactions online. Probably the best idea when you learn that someone with whom you are talking is a minor is to end the conversation. Government agents work online posing as minors in sting operations specifically to arrest people. If government agents do not detect illegal conduct, then parents or even the minors themselves can contact authorities.

If you have been contacted by the authorities, it is vital to do the following:

• Never give them any material or devices unless they have a valid search warrant.

• Always ask for your attorney to be present. If you do not have an attorney, it is crucial to hire one as soon as possible.

• Do not answer any questions from law enforcement without an attorney present as Harris did when authorities were executing a search warrant. Responding to their questions will not get you out of trouble. It will only create additional problems.

Contact an Experienced Sex Crimes Attorney at Cohen Law Offices

If you are facing allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor, call the Cohen Law Offices at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online today. Our skilled legal team is dedicated to helping the accused protect their rights, and we are committed to resolving every case as favorably as possible.