⏱ 2 min read
Alex Tyler Buenaga, a 32-year-old former Newport News firefighter, pleaded guilty to producing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and coercing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The abuse occurred in Suffolk, Virginia, starting in October 2024, where Buenaga sexually assaulted a three-month-old infant, filmed the abuse, and distributed the CSAM online. Buenaga invited others, including Ryan Wade Johnston, to participate in the abuse and smoke methamphetamine. The FBI’s Norfolk Field Office investigated the case after receiving an emergency tip about a Telegram user producing and distributing CSAM.
Buenaga’s crimes were discovered on January 24, 2025, when FBI agents responded to the tip and arrested him and Johnston at Buenaga’s residence. Buenaga recorded himself abusing the infant over 90 times and even blew methamphetamine smoke in the infant’s face on at least one occasion. The infant was rescued, and Buenaga and Johnston were taken into custody before they could inflict further harm.
Buenaga is scheduled to be sentenced on September 22 and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life plus 60 years in prison. Johnston is charged with production of CSAM, receipt of CSAM, coercion and enticement of a minor, and possession of CSAM, with a bench trial set for June 15. The case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse.
The investigation and prosecution of this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protecting children from abuse and exploitation. Buenaga’s guilty plea and the upcoming sentencing will bring some measure of justice to the victim and the community.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: Virginia
- Location: VA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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