Child Porn Charges Filed Against Former University Park Mayor

UNIVERSITY PARK, MD — Another civic leader from Prince George's County has been charged in connection to child pornography, according to police.

The former mayor of University Park faces dozens of charges after an FBI investigation discovered 45,000 files containing images of child sex abuse and rape.

The University Park Police Department was notified by the FBI Oct. 28 that federal officials planned to execute a search warrant at the home of Joel Biermann, 4408 Tuckerman St. He served as mayor from June 2022 to June 2024 and was on the town council from June 2020 to June 2022.

Investigators said Biermann, 46, produced, distributed and knowingly possessed images and videos of children being sexually abused. Some of the incidents happened during his time as mayor of University Park, the FBI said.

"He no longer has an official position with the town. He is a private citizen and the town has no contact with him and cannot comment on his activities. These are serious charges and the town is ready to assist as requested," the city posted on its website.

Biermann has been charged with 22 counts of possessing child sexual abuse images, along with other charges.

WTOP reported that the files found on Biermann's computer listed the children's race and age. The youngest victim was 2 years old. Several files were labeled with descriptions such as rape, torture or bondage, according to charging documents.

In his office, investigators found children's undergarments and a child-sized blow-up doll, authorities said in charging documents.

Investigators said Biermann started messaging a Facebook user in 2021 and paid the person to produce sexually explicit images of two young boys. This continued through December 2023.

A subpoena of his Facebook account showed 4,500 messages were sent between Biermann and the unknown Facebook user who lives outside the U.S. from January 2021 through December 2023, charging documents said.

Prince George's County State's Attorney Aisha Braveboy said the actions were committed online.

"The allegations and evidence seized during the execution of the search warrant are both repugnant and extremely disturbing," Braveboy said in a statement. "Additionally, they serve as proof that he is a continued danger to the community. During the hearing, the judge acknowledged the 'stark and startling' charges and ordered the defendant remain held without bond."

Biermann was appointed to the Maryland Veterans Home Commission by Gov. Wes Moore in July 2024. FOX 5 reached out to the commission, which said Biermann is no longer serving on the board.

"Mr. Biermann was appointed to the Veterans Home Commission in July 2024 and attended one meeting in this volunteer capacity. He has been removed from his position on the commission, effective immediately. The department takes such allegations seriously and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of the communities we serve," the commission said in a statement.

In November 2023, the mayor of College Park, a neighboring jurisdiction, was sentenced to 30 years in a child sexual abuse materials case.