Buffalo priest charged after devices seized during search
Read, Watch or Listen
Buffalo, N.Y. This week federal prosecutors charged Jeffrey Nowak, a 46-year-old former pastor in Cheektowaga, with receipt and possession of child pornography after investigators executed a search warrant at his Lackawanna home on Wednesday and seized electronic devices and a USB drive, officials said. The U.S. Attorney's Office filed a criminal complaint; Nowak had been placed on administrative leave by the Buffalo Catholic Diocese in 2019 amid unrelated allegations. Authorities said the investigation was reopened in March 2026 after a user identified as Nowak accessed an overseas Telegram group containing child pornography; agents reported recovering folders with illicit videos and suspected narcotics. Nowak is scheduled to appear in federal court Thursday, and the FBI reiterated that no one is above the law while a victims' attorney urged belief in survivors.
Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- August 2019 – Nowak placed on administrative leave by Buffalo Catholic Diocese amid allegations.
- 2023 – FBI closed an earlier inquiry after a search warrant of an email found no contraband.
- March 2026 – Investigation reopened after Telegram group activity tied to a user identified as Nowak.
- Wednesday (this week) – Federal agents executed a search warrant at Nowak’s Lackawanna home and seized devices, a USB drive and suspected narcotics.
- Thursday (this week) – Nowak is scheduled to appear in federal court on criminal charges.
Why This Matters to You
This case underscores the importance of online safety. It's a reminder that even trusted figures can misuse technology. Check your family's internet habits. Ensure kids know how to report inappropriate behavior.
The Bottom Line
No one is above the law, even those in positions of trust. This case is a stark reminder of that. Stay informed about local crime news. It's worth forwarding if you know someone who values community safety.
- Articles Published:
- 3
- Right Leaning:
- 0
- Left Leaning:
- 0
- Neutral:
- 3
- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%
Law enforcement agencies and child protection advocates may gain investigative and prosecutorial progress from evidence recovered and renewed federally-led scrutiny.
Survivors, parishioners and the local Catholic community suffered reputational, emotional and institutional harm as allegations and charges resurfaced.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
No left-leaning sources found for this story.
From Right
No right-leaning sources found for this story.
Comments