New York Man Pleads Guilty to Child Exploitation Charges

Zachary Long, a 27-year-old resident of Scotia, New York, has pled guilty to charges of attempted online coercion and enticement of a minor, as well as possession of child pornography. The plea was entered on October 19, 2026, before United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino, the U.

S. Attorney's Office announced.

According to the Justice Department, Long engaged in text message exchanges between August 22 and September 27, 2023, with an individual he believed to be the uncle of a 10-year-old boy. During these exchanges, Long expressed a desire to engage in sexual activities with the minor. On September 27, 2023, Long arrived at a predetermined location with the intent to meet the child for sexual acts, where he was subsequently arrested by law enforcement.

Long also admitted to possessing child pornography on his cell phone. His sentencing is scheduled for February 19, 2027, where he faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Additionally, he will be placed on supervised release for a period ranging from five years to life following his imprisonment.

Long could also face a fine of up to $250,000 and will be required to forfeit property used in the commission of his offenses. Furthermore, he will be mandated to register as a sex offender.

The investigation leading to Long's arrest was conducted by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes the New York State Police and the Colonie Police Department. The case is being prosecuted under Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse.

First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III emphasized the commitment to prosecuting individuals involved in sex crimes against children, thanking the law enforcement agencies for their diligent investigation. Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albany Field Office, stated that Long's plans for the next decade will now involve serving time in federal prison, highlighting the ongoing efforts of the FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force to investigate and incarcerate child predators.

Project Safe Childhood, led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, coordinates federal, state, and local resources to address child exploitation via the Internet and to rescue victims.