Austin Wolf, once a well-known name in the adult entertainment industry, has been sentenced to 19 years in prison for crimes involving child exploitation. The ruling, delivered by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on September 29, 2025, marks the end of Wolf’s public career and a dark chapter in an industry already scrutinized for its ethical boundaries.
Who Is Austin Wolf?
Born Justin Heath Smith, Wolf rose to prominence in the gay adult film world during the 2010s. He built a recognizable brand not only through his work with adult studios but also as an independent content creator on subscription-based platforms. With a large online following, he cultivated the image of a successful performer and entrepreneur, becoming a familiar face in LGBTQ+ media and nightlife spaces.
However, behind this public persona, investigators say Smith was engaging in deeply disturbing behavior that ultimately led to his downfall.
The Investigation and Arrest
According to federal prosecutors, Smith used encrypted messaging apps like Telegram to exchange hundreds of illegal videos involving minors, some as young as infants. A 2024 search of his Manhattan apartment uncovered digital storage devices containing more than 1,200 files of child sexual abuse material.
Authorities also found records of conversations in which Smith discussed meeting minors for sexual activity. In one confirmed case, he enticed a 15-year-old into engaging in sexual conduct through online communication.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
In June 2025, Smith pleaded guilty to enticement of a minor, a charge carrying a mandatory minimum sentence. While other counts, including distribution and possession, were dropped under a plea agreement, the guilty admission sealed his fate.
At sentencing, Judge Engelmayer called the crimes “horrific” and emphasized their devastating impact on victims. Along with 19 years in prison, Smith was ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release and pay a $40,000 fine.
During court proceedings, Smith expressed remorse, admitting he “knew it was wrong” and accepting full responsibility.
