New York Pastor Pleads Guilty to Using Encrypted Chat to Sexually Exploit Children

A Long Island, New York pastor has pleaded guilty to charges of sexual exploitation of a child, federal authorities announced Tuesday. Jose Saez, Jr., 29, a pastor at a church in Brentwood, admitted to the charges in federal court in Central Islip. He now faces a minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison when sentenced.

The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Joan M. Azrack. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, in coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

According to court filings, Saez engaged in sexually explicit conversations with minors using an encrypted messaging service. Investigators stated that he also communicated online with an undercover law enforcement officer, during which he admitted to past abuse and discussed potential future victims. A subsequent court-authorized search led to the recovery of numerous images and videos of child pornography.

Federal prosecutors emphasized the severity of the crimes. “Protecting vulnerable children from predators will always be a priority of this Office,” said U.S. Attorney John J. Durham. The FBI also stressed the importance of safeguarding minors and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Saez's case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a federal initiative aimed at combating child exploitation and abuse through coordinated law enforcement efforts. Authorities continue to encourage the public to report any knowledge of similar crimes.

Individuals with information related to the case are encouraged to contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 212-384-1000.