Former Ill. Rep. Keith Farnham released on home confinement

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Former Illinois State Representative Keith Farnham appeared in federal court for the first time Wednesday to answer charges of possessing child pornography.

Graphic and disturbing details of the allegations were outlined in a federal criminal complaint earlier this week.

Voters in Elgin first elected Farnham, 66, to the State House five years ago. During his stay in Springfield, he co-sponsored legislation designed to toughen penalties against those who would sexually abuse children.

"I love the people that sent me to Springfield, they've been very good to me," he said.

Farnham has pulmonary fibrosis and is in need of a lung transplant as a result of Hepatitis C. When he abruptly resigned his House seat last month, Farnham cited health reasons, not then acknowledging the child pornography charges that have been brought against him.

A government investigation into porn trading last summer led cyber crimes agents to an email address later linked to Farnham. In an Instant Messenger conversation, Farnham allegedly said to an alleged child porn trader, "Send me some more. It is hot."

In another graphic exchange, Farnham allegedly said, "Twelve is about as old as I can handle. I love them at six, seven, eight."

And in yet another, Farnham allegedly chats, "I wish I had access to all the vids and pics ever made."

Investigators found child pornography images on his home computer, and two videos were found on his State of Illinois office computer.

"And after I've had an opportunity to review all of the material, I'll sit down with my client and decide what's in his best interest," said Terry Ekl, Farnham's attorney.

Farnham briefly appeared before a judge Wednesday, who released him on home confinement. He has not yet entered a plea.

Farnham is on electronic monitoring and cannot leave his home without permission. He cannot access the Internet, and is not allowed to have contact with anyone under the age of 18.