LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A local social media influencer is facing multiple child pornography charges after police said he shared explicit images of minors online.
Michael David Booth, 39, of Prospect, was arrested Wednesday and charged with at least 20 counts of distributing matter portraying sexual performance by a minor, some depicting children under the age of 12.
According to police, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tipped officers about Booth’s Kik account, which investigators said was used to share images depicting sexual acts involving minors between Aug. 5 and Aug. 7.
During a search of Booth’s home, authorities said they found multiple files involving children under 12, as well as minors between the ages of 12 and 18. Files depicting children under 12 were reportedly shared at least 10 times, while others were sent at least 15 times.
Booth is also known as "Mr. Crafty Pants" on YouTube and social media. His accounts focus on how to do DIY craft projects.
A social media influencer known as "Mr. Crafty Pants" was arrested on child porn charges. His name is Michael Booth. (WDRB Image) Oct. 24, 2025
Neighbors said the arrest shook their normally quiet neighborhood. Laura Nash, who lives across the street, said police were at Booth’s home for several hours, with multiple marked and unmarked vehicles on the street.
“So we walked out our front door on Wednesday to a very heavy police presence,” Nash said. “My heart dropped. Felt sick to my stomach. It was gut-wrenching and eye-opening.”
A Halloween sign in Booth’s front yard reading, “I smell children,” drew additional concern from residents. Neighbor Lindsay Smart said the arrest was a stark reminder that appearances can be deceiving.
“You feel like you know your neighbors, but what goes on behind closed doors… I guess we never know,” Smart said. “It’s sickening, it’s disgusting, and I’m glad he got caught.”
Booth appeared in Jefferson County District Court Thursday morning. The judge set his bond at $100,000 full cash and ordered that he have no contact with minors and no internet or social media access. Booth entered a plea of not guilty on all charges.
He remains in custody at Metro Corrections. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing.
More area crime stories:
New Albany man arrested for allegedly using ladder and cellphone to record neighbors
Louisville man arrested for rape, human trafficking and drug charges in Bullitt County
Kentucky Supreme Court overturns conviction in murders of Louisville man, his 3-year-old daughter
Indiana woman arrested with 11 pounds of marijuana during traffic stop in Clarksville
Man accused of swinging dog by leash, throwing it against dumpster in Bullitt County
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