U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced the arrest of Bernard J. Keller, 27, from Hamburg, NY, on charges related to child pornography. Keller faces charges of receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography, with potential penalties ranging from a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango is handling the case. He noted that the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported files of suspected child pornography shared on the Kik application in 2017 and 2018. These files were traced back to Keller, who was convicted in Erie County Court in August 2022 for possessing a sexual performance by a child under 16. He received a sentence of ten years' probation and was added to the New York State Sex Offender registry.
In March 2025, NCMEC again reported that four files of suspected child pornography were shared on Kik between two users. The investigation led authorities back to Keller once more. On May 21, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and seized his cell phone where they found suspected child pornography.
Authorities are seeking public assistance in this matter. Anyone with information regarding Keller is encouraged to contact the FBI at 716-856-7800.
The complaint stems from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation under Acting Special Agent-in-Charge Mark Grimm and the New York State Police led by Major Amie Feroleto.
It is important to note that while charges have been filed against Keller, he remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
