Gregory Conrad Puzio, also referred to as "Tony G." and from Albany, has pleaded guilty to the charge of receiving child pornography, according to an announcement from Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III. Erin Keegan of HSI and NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James were also mentioned in the statement. The U.S. Attorney's Office provided the update on the plea yesterday.
Puzio, 40, admitted to using a messaging application to receive materials, including a video showing the sexual abuse and beating of a child, which took place in February 2025. While he was initially charged locally in late June and released on bond, a federal complaint filed in July led to his detention without objection, overturning the state court's original decision to grant bail.
Acting U.S. Attorney Sarcone emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that while Puzio's crimes were severe, they were not initially considered sufficient grounds for detention in state court. However, prompt actions by HSI and NYSP resulted in the case being brought to federal court, ensuring Puzio's removal from the streets and eliminating the threat he posed to children, as stated in a release.
NYSP Superintendent James, emphasizing teamwork and a strong commitment to child protection, stated, "The exploitation and abuse of children is among the most serious crimes we confront." He further noted that the guilty plea highlights the effectiveness of collaboration and sends a clear message to predators, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Puzio is set to be sentenced on May 26, with a sentence ranging from 5 to 20 years in prison, a possible fine of up to $250,000, and a minimum of 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release. The final sentence will be determined by the court, considering the laws violated, sentencing guidelines, and other relevant factors. Following his prison sentence, Puzio will be required to register as a sex offender. The investigation, led by HSI and NYSP with assistance from the United States Postal Service's Office of Inspector General, is ongoing as part of Project Safe Childhood, a national initiative focused on combating child sexual abuse and exploitation.
