A man involved in the operation of a child pornography Web site featuring young girls was sentenced Thursday to 60 months in federal prison.

Charles Granere pleaded guilty in December to one count of transportation of child pornography as part of a plea bargain. U.S. District Judge Tena Campbell imposed the sentence Thursday.

"I am sorry for my actions," a tearful Granere said. "I wish I could take it all back."

Granere operated the Web site with Matthew Duhamel, a former weather forecaster for KUTV Channel 2 and host of a late-night talk show on KPNZ Channel 24.

The two men were charged with transporting, receiving and possessing child pornography for the site, which court documents said featured 9- and 10-year-old girls dressed in sexually provocative and skimpy clothing.

According to federal prosecutors, Duhamel and Granere ran the pay-to-view Web site, which had an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 patrons who paid $22 monthly to view the photos. Court documents stated one photo was of a 9-year-old girl sitting on a table in "black stiletto pumps, a black lace thong, black bra and black jacket."

Granere originally faced the prospect of 15 years in prison, but prosecutors recommended he serve 72 months. Campbell ruled 60 months was "more just" for him, noting that Granere is the sole provider for his wife and two young daughters.

However, the judge observed she found it "ironic" that Granere said he cares so much for his daughters, yet his crime injured other young girls.

Duhamel was convicted after a bench trial in February of charges of transporting, receiving and possessing child pornography. He will be sentenced June 19.

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