Buffalo priest charged after devices seized during search
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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.
More context
Timeline
- 1. August 2019 – Nowak placed on administrative leave by Buffalo Catholic Diocese amid allegations.
- 2. 2023 – FBI closed an earlier inquiry after a search warrant of an email found no contraband.
- 3. March 2026 – Investigation reopened after Telegram group activity tied to a user identified as Nowak.
- 4. Wednesday (this week) – Federal agents executed a search warrant at Nowak’s Lackawanna home and seized devices, a USB drive and suspected narcotics.
- 5. Thursday (this week) – Nowak is scheduled to appear in federal court on criminal charges.
Why it matters
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.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
