NY school board VP allegedly kept videos of infants being sexually abused on his phone

The vice president of a school board in upstate New York, Travis Barr Longo, has been arrested on child pornography charges after authorities found several videos of infants being sexually abused on his phone. According to the US Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of New York, state troopers seized Longo’s cellphone and discovered numerous disturbing videos and photos depicting sexual abuse.

Longo, 46, who hails from Cazenovia, allegedly received the vile content from other users on an internet-based messaging app. He appeared in federal court on Saturday and was ordered to be held behind bars pending further court proceedings.

The Cazenovia Central School District, where Longo serves as the vice president of the Board of Education, has called for his immediate resignation. The district is pursuing his removal through state-mandated processes if he does not resign voluntarily. The board expressed shock, deep sadness, and outrage over the serious allegations against Longo.

In response to the scandal, the Cazenovia Pride Fest, which Longo founded and later evolved into the organization Cazenovia Pride, has decided to dissolve. The upcoming Pride festival has been canceled in light of the accusations against Longo.

Longo, who also performed in drag under the name Anita Buffem, claimed to be “the 1st Drag Artist elected to official position in U.S.” on his Facebook profile. He now faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine for both charges, and a supervised release term of at least five years and up to life. Additionally, Longo will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Patrone emphasized the importance of protecting children and ensuring parents can trust that their kids are safe. He stated that law enforcement agencies will aggressively pursue anyone who endangers children.

The disturbing allegations against a school board vice president have shaken the community and raised concerns about parental trust and child safety. The swift action taken by the school district and law enforcement underscores the seriousness of the charges against Longo and the commitment to ensuring the protection of children.