U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross has announced the arrest and charging of Ahmed Yaqoob, a 24-year-old resident of Rochester, New York. Yaqoob faces charges related to the production and possession of child pornography. These charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and could result in a maximum sentence of up to 30 years.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is overseeing the case, detailed that on October 18, 2024, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report involving the rape of a minor in North Collins. The investigation revealed that Yaqoob had been communicating with a 12-year-old girl through the dating app "Pure" since October 17, 2024. Arrangements were made for Yaqoob to meet the girl at her residence in North Collins.
Upon his arrival, both the 12-year-old and her 14-year-old sister entered Yaqoob's vehicle. According to the complaint, he then drove them to Zoar Valley Road in Concord where he engaged in sexual activities with both minors. Investigators suspect that Yaqoob recorded these activities on his cell phone.
A search conducted on October 24, 2024, led investigators to recover two videos from Yaqoob's phone that depicted him with the victims. These videos had been previously recorded and deleted.
The public is encouraged to contact the FBI Buffalo Office at 716-856-7800 if they have any information pertinent to this case.
This investigation was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation under Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office led by Sheriff John Garcia.
It is important to note that while charges have been filed against Yaqoob, these are accusations at this stage. He remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.