Nicholas Neal

A town of Westfield man is facing child pornography charges after a seven-month investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department.

Nicholas Neal, 25, was charged Tuesday with one count of promoting an obscene sexual performance by a child and 10 counts of possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child.

In March, the Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigation Division initiated an investigation into the promotion and possession of internet based child pornography in the town of Westfield. Investigators identified Neal as the person allegedly responsible for these crimes. He was located and his devices were seized. Through further investigation and the execution of search warrants, investigators allege a large quantity of images portraying obscene sexual performances being performed by children were located.

“The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting children from online exploitation and holding offenders accountable,” the news release stated. “Working closely with local, state, and federal partners through the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office is utilizing advanced technology and any available investigative resources to identify, track, and arrest those who target children online. The message is clear – people who exploit children will be found and brought to justice.”

Neal was transported to the Chautauqua County Jail for centralized arraignment. He will answer his charges in the Chautauqua County Supreme Court.