Ex-staffer for Sen. Alexander seeks release in porn charges

A former chief of staff for Sen. Lamar Alexander is asking a judge to release him from custody as he faces child pornography charges.

Ryan Loskarn was arrested Wednesday on federal charges of possessing child pornography and attempting to distribute it. A judge ordered him detained pending a court appearance Monday.

His lawyers said in a bond motion filed Friday that the 35-year-old Loskarn has no criminal record, no history of drug or alcohol abuse and an impressive work history.

They propose that he be released to live with his parents in Maryland. They also say he is prepared to give up his passport and undergo a mental health evaluation.

Alexander, a Tennessee Republican, said in a news release Wednesday he was "stunned, surprised and disappointed" by the allegations.