Former star of Survivor, Michael Skupin, has been found guilty of possessing child pornography in Oakland Country.
The now 54-year-old first made headlines when he appeared in Survivor: The Australian Outback in 2001. He infamously had to be rescued from the show after burning both his hands in a campfire. Skupin then made a reemergence when he participated in another season, Survivor: Phillippines.
The material was first discovered on the businessman’s computer when he was being investigated for allegedly coordinating a major frauding scheme.
He was found guilty of four of the six offences he was facing in relation to the child pornography, facing up to four years imprisonment for each.
Attorney-General Bill Scheutte severely condemned Skupin for his horrific actions.
“The children in these videos and images were exploited, and each time the images were shared and viewed continued their suffering,” he said.
Michael at the reunion. Image via Getty.
"My hope is that today’s conviction will bring some closure to the families and the children that are victims in this case."
Next week, Skupin will go back to court on charges of financial fraud.
According to Pedestrian, Skupin organised for family and friends to make cash payments of $10,000 to his scheme, "Pay It Foward", thus funding his past and new investors.
In an exclusive statement provided to People in February, following his arrest, Skupin said he had been completely misrepresented by the accusations.
"Thank you to those who continue to believe in me. I am the guy that you think that I am," he said.
"My whole life has been kids: my kids, my family and anyone who ever needed help in any way. I’ve traveled the globe working with millions of kids both one-on-one, at schools, camps and assemblies. I’ve coached over 60 seasons of youth sports.
"I have never, ever hurt a child in any way – not as alleged and not ever."