BUFFALO – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Joseph A. Buelow, 31, of South Dayton has pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2024, the West Seneca Police Department seized Buelow’s phone, based on communications he was having online. A search of the phone recovered six images of child pornography that were saved on the phone and received by Buelow between August 2022, and November 2023. Some of the images depicted prepubescent minors and violence against children. In addition, Buelow admits that he engaged in the sexual abuse, exploitation, or attempted sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor on two or more occasions.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Philip Tejera, the West Seneca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Cosgrove and the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger.

Sentencing is scheduled for April 27 at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.