BRIDGEPORT, CT – A New York man admitted in federal court this week that he used social media platforms to contact and exploit underage users in multiple states, pleading guilty to serious federal child exploitation charges.
James Pagliaro, 27, of Middletown, New York, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to receipt of child pornography, enticement of a minor, and traveling to engage in unlawful sexual conduct. He faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison when sentenced on May 8.
According to court documents, investigators found that Pagliaro used TikTok and Snapchat in late 2024 and early 2025 to communicate with minors, including a 15-year-old in Connecticut. He later traveled to Connecticut several times to meet the victim. A search of the victim’s phone uncovered extensive communications between Pagliaro and the minor, leading to his arrest in March 2025.
Federal prosecutors said Pagliaro also sent explicit messages and images to other minors in the United States and abroad, using social media to approach hundreds of potential victims. Homeland Security Investigations led the case, working with several Connecticut and New York police departments.
Federal crackdown on online child exploitation
The case is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, a nationwide effort to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals who exploit or endanger minors online. Authorities emphasized that parents should closely monitor their children’s online activity and report suspicious behavior to law enforcement.
- James Pagliaro pleaded guilty to federal child exploitation charges
- Used social media to contact and manipulate underage users
- Faces up to life in prison at sentencing in May
Pagliaro has been in custody since his arrest and will remain detained until sentencing.
Federal authorities urge vigilance as online child exploitation cases rise
