Former Chattanooga Police Officer Brian Moody III pleaded guilty on Friday afternoon to possession of child pornography and was allowed to remain on bond until sentencing on May 14.
He will be sentenced by Judge Sandy Mattice.
Prosecutor James Brooks told Magistrate Judge Chris Steger that the maximum punishment Moody would face is 10 years in federal prison.
Attorney Lee Davis said Moody is now in both private and group counseling to deal the issue.
Conditions of his release include not being alone with children under the age of 18 and not being on a computer or smartphone without the permission of a probation officer.
Moody was also told to seek employment. He has been training as a forklift operator.
Attorney Davis noted that, having been a police officer, that Moody might not be safe in either Hamilton County or Bradley County jails.
Magistrate Judge Steger said the fact Moody was a police officer was not a factor in his decision.
He said it appeared he had strong family ties and was actively seeking treatment.
In Federal Court, no actual bond is posted. However, a defendant forfeits $30,000 by not showing up in court.