Vice President of Buffalo Chapter of B.A.C.A. Arrested on Federal Child Pornography Charges
Buffalo, NY – April 9, 2025 — In a deeply troubling development that has sent shockwaves through both local communities and national advocacy circles, John Todaro, the vice president of the Buffalo chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse (B.A.C.A.), was arrested Wednesday on federal child pornography charges. According to the New York State Police, Todaro, 49, of Amherst, faces serious allegations involving the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
Todaro has been formally charged with promoting a sexual performance by a child and possessing a sexual performance by a child, following a lengthy investigation conducted by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Authorities allege that Todaro was not merely a passive possessor of illicit material but was also actively engaged in the dissemination of exploitative content involving minors.
The investigation was carried out as part of the ICAC Task Force’s ongoing efforts to identify and prosecute individuals involved in technology-facilitated exploitation of children. The task force, a nationally coordinated effort comprising federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, has increasingly focused on the ways that digital platforms and devices are used to traffic in child sexual abuse material.
“Given Mr. Todaro’s leadership role within B.A.C.A., an organization explicitly dedicated to supporting children who are victims of abuse, these allegations are particularly disturbing,” said a spokesperson for the ICAC Task Force. “His position may have afforded him increased access to vulnerable children, which is something we are investigating thoroughly.”
A Breach of Trust in an Advocacy Group
Bikers Against Child Abuse, or B.A.C.A., is a nonprofit organization with chapters around the world. The group is known for its mission to create a safer environment for abused children by offering support, protection, and advocacy. Members often form bonds with children who have survived abuse, escorting them to court appearances and standing as a buffer between victims and alleged abusers. The organization has been widely praised for its grassroots approach to empowering vulnerable youth.
The arrest of a high-ranking member of such an organization is, according to experts, both devastating and complex.
“When someone in a position of trust — particularly someone aligned with child advocacy — is accused of crimes against children, the betrayal cuts deeply,” said Dr. Marissa Coleman, a clinical psychologist who works with abuse survivors. “It undermines the very structure of safety and protection that these children and their families rely on.”
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
News of Todaro’s arrest has prompted an immediate response from the national leadership of B.A.C.A., though as of this writing, no official statement has been released. The Buffalo chapter’s website and social media accounts have gone offline, and local community members have expressed shock and concern over the allegations.
The ICAC Task Force is continuing its investigation to determine whether Todaro used his role within B.A.C.A. to gain access to children, and whether any children affiliated with the organization may have been harmed or targeted.
Officials have also indicated that digital evidence is being reviewed, and further charges may be forthcoming if more victims or illicit material are identified.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
Todaro is currently being held in federal custody, and his initial court appearance is expected in the coming days. Authorities have not disclosed whether bail will be granted or if a plea has been entered. If convicted, Todaro could face significant prison time, as federal sentencing guidelines for crimes involving child sexual abuse material are severe and often involve mandatory minimums.
Meanwhile, parents and guardians who had children involved with the Buffalo B.A.C.A. chapter are being encouraged to contact law enforcement if they have any concerns or information.
“This is an active investigation,” said the New York State Police. “We urge anyone with knowledge of Mr. Todaro’s interactions with children — especially in the context of his B.A.C.A. involvement — to come forward.”
As the case unfolds, it raises difficult but necessary questions about background checks, oversight, and accountability within organizations that work with vulnerable populations.
For now, a community that once looked to B.A.C.A. as a shield for the innocent is grappling with the reality that, in this instance, that shield may have been wielded by someone who exploited it for unspeakable harm.