Youth camp counselor in court on child porn charges

A West Bloomfield camp counselor charged with producing child pornography was in court Tuesday.

In federal court 21-year-old Matthew Kuppe appeared charged with child porn. His parents sat in the front row, and behind them, the parents of Kuppe’s alleged victims.

No cameras were allowed in court as a judge determined Kuppe posed a threat to the community, and should be kept in custody until further notice.

His parents, showing no emotion on court, hoped the judge would let him come home under their supervision.

Kuppe, appearing anxious in court, frequently looked to his parents during the proceedings. He mouthed the words "I love you" several times. All while explicit descriptions of his acts toward young boys were read aloud.

Currently Kuppe is facing charges for possessing, producing and receiving child pornography while he worked as a camp counselor at the Jewish Community Center.

He allegedly took naked photos of young male campers in the locker room.

So far, three of campers have been identified as victims, all about 5 years old. Their pictures were shared on a Russian website.

The pictures were posted in two albums, one named "5-year-old Jewish boys," the other, labeled with the full name of the victimized 5-year-old.

West Bloomfield police have set up a hotline to field a high volume of calls from concerned parents.

More charges may come out against Kuppe, over the next few weeks having to do with any physical contact he may have had with the boys.

Kuppe’s family and attorney would not comment after the hearing.

Kuppe will be held without bond until his next hearing on Aug. 27.