A Gloucester police officer has been charged with receipt of child sexual abuse material, according to federal authorities. Alexander Aiello, 34, is facing one count of receipt of child pornography and will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
Charging documents allege that Aiello, a patrol officer with the Gloucester Police Department, was identified as a user on a dark website that facilitated the download and distribution of child sexual abuse material. Searches conducted on April 28, 2025, led to the seizure of Aiello's cell phone, laptop, and a USB thumb drive from his residence.
Preliminary examinations reportedly found that Aiello's laptop had an active TOR Browser installed—an application used for anonymous web access—and evidence suggesting recent use for downloading files. Encrypted folders were also allegedly discovered on both the USB drive and laptop.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: "As a law enforcement officer, Mr. Aiello was entrusted with safeguarding the community – and that includes protecting children from exploitation and abuse. Instead, he allegedly participated in one of the most reprehensible forms of exploitation." She emphasized the commitment to combating child exploitation regardless of whether offenders are private citizens or public officials.
James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Boston Division, remarked: "As a police officer, Alexander Aiello was sworn to protect and serve, but today, the FBI charged him for receiving images of children being sexually abused." He highlighted the importance of protecting children from such victimization as a priority for their task force.
The charge carries potential penalties including five to 20 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
The case is part of Project Safe Childhood—a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in May 2006—to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project coordinates efforts across federal, state, and local levels to prosecute offenders and rescue victims.
Public inquiries regarding this case can be directed to 617-748-3274 or USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.
U.S. Attorney Foley and FBI Acting SAC Crowley announced these charges with assistance from the Gloucester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm is prosecuting this case under Project Safe Childhood guidelines.
It should be noted that all details contained within charging documents are allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court proceedings.
