Billings child psychiatrist faces child porn charges

BILLINGS (AP) — ?A Billings child and adolescent psychiatrist is expected to plead guilty to a federal charge of possessing child pornography.

The Billings Gazette reports that Dr. James Peak has been suspended from Billings Clinic and had previously reported to investigators that he had a collection of child porn.

A plea agreement filed in U.S. District Court Monday says Peak will plead guilty to one count of possession of child pornography.

The crime normally carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. But the agreement calls for the prosecutor to recommend a lesser sentence because of Peak's "extraordinary acceptance of responsibility."

Peak had been working at the clinic since 1994.

Peak's attorney declined to comment. A court date has not yet been set.