Jose Saez, Jr., a 29-year-old Long Island pastor, faces up to 30 years behind bars after pleading guilty to sexually exploiting minors. Prosecutors described his crimes as “unspeakable,” citing his solicitation of explicit content from young boys online.
Saez, who led Iglesia Cristiana Alumbrando El Camino in Brentwood, used an encrypted messaging service to engage in explicit conversations with minors. In August 2023, he unknowingly interacted with an undercover agent, confessing to the sexual abuse of an infant and expressing his preference for victims between 11 and 15 years old. He also admitted to seeking out children within his church.
The FBI’s Long Island Child Exploitation Task Force arrested Saez on September 28, 2023, following an online tip. A search of his phone revealed 15 disturbing videos, including footage of a 16-year-old boy engaged in sexual acts. Per People, prosecutors reported that Saez not only requested and saved such material but also distributed it to at least ten individuals.
During questioning, Jose Saez admitted to repeated offenses involving multiple minors, expressing regret but stating, “I’m sorry that I cannot stop.” Authorities believe his predatory behavior dates back to 2000, with him using Snapchat, Telegram, and KIK to target victims, sometimes posing as a woman.
U.S. Attorney John J. Durham condemned Jose Saez’s abuse of trust, stating that protecting children from predators like him remains a priority. Sentencing is scheduled for September 3, with a minimum sentence of 15 years.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
