METHUEN, Mass — A Methuen police officer was arrested on a child pornography charge Tuesday, state police tell Boston 25 News.
Matthew Bistany, 51, was arrested at his home by state police troopers and Methuen police on one count of child pornography, according to an MSP spokesperson.
A search warrant was executed prior to Bistany’s arrest, MSP says.
An investigation began earlier this year when the Massachusetts State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received a Cyber Tipline Report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reporting the upload of child sexual assault material to a specific IP address connected to Bistany.
Bistany has been placed on administrative leave by the Methuen Police Department, according to Police Chief Scott McNamara.
“While Officer Bistany is presumed innocent until proven guilty, the Methuen Police Department condemns the officer’s conduct as alleged in the charging documents. These allegations in no way reflect upon the character and reputation of the men and women of the Methuen Police Department who stand committed to protecting children and continue to serve with distinction,’ said McNamara
“The Massachusetts State Police and our law enforcement partners like the Methuen Police Department stand committed to protecting children, who are among the most vulnerable members of society, from sexual abuse, which is what child pornography is. I commend the work of our Cyber Crimes Unit and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and am grateful for our partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children,” said Massachusetts State Police Colonel John Mawn Jr.
Bistany will be arraigned in Lawrence District Court Tuesday afternoon.
Officials say more information will be released once Bistany is arraigned.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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