Imprisoned former state Rep. Keith Farnham has been sued by two underage girls who contend the Elgin Democrat downloaded sexually graphic videos and images of them.
The suit, which asks for damages of at least $150,000, was filed under a federal law enabling victims to recoup money from those who possess child pornography. The suit noted that while serving as a state representative, Farnham co-sponsored two bills to increase penalties for child pornography crimes. He also received “significant campaign contributions” from the child advocacy organization Stand for Children, according to the suit.
“(Farnham) knew or had reason to know that the images he possessed were produced, distributed and trafficked in violation of state and federal child pornography laws, especially since he was a co–sponsor of similar laws in the Illinois General Assembly,” the lawsuit said.