A former Long Island educator's arrest has unveiled disturbing allegations of online misconduct targeting minors across state lines.

According to the New York Post, Ryan McCaffery, 37, appeared in Suffolk County court Monday to face multiple charges related to soliciting explicit photos from children under 14 through Snapchat conversations.

The Ridge resident and former Riverhead High School social studies teacher now confronts 11 counts, including promoting sexual performance of a child under 17 and possession of child pornography.

Suffolk County prosecutors detailed how McCaffery allegedly engaged in sexual acts during online conversations with minors in December, marking his second arrest related to similar allegations.

Former Teacher's Pattern of Predatory Behavior

McCaffery's latest charges stem from an extensive cybercrime investigation conducted by New York State Police. Investigators uncovered evidence during a January 17 raid on McCaffery's residence, leading to his initial arrest in Bergen County, New Jersey. The probe revealed alleged explicit online interactions with two children under 13 dating back to 2022.

School officials at Riverhead High School, where McCaffery taught and coached, emphasized that none of the victims in either case were students at their institution. McCaffery resigned from his teaching position shortly before the New Jersey charges were filed. The timing of his departure raised concerns about potential warning signs that may have been missed during his employment.

The investigation spanning multiple jurisdictions highlighted the challenges of tracking online predators who cross state lines. Law enforcement agencies from both New York and New Jersey collaborated closely to build cases against McCaffery, demonstrating the importance of interstate cooperation in cyber crimes involving minors.

Legal Proceedings Advance in Two States

McCaffery maintained his innocence during Monday's arraignment, entering a not-guilty plea to all charges in Suffolk County. The judge set bail with non-monetary conditions, allowing McCaffery to remain free while awaiting trial. Court records indicate his next appearance in New Jersey is scheduled for Thursday, followed by a June 16 hearing in Long Island.

The prosecution faces the complex task of managing parallel cases in two jurisdictions. Evidence gathered during the January raid and subsequent joint police interviews proved crucial in building both cases. Law enforcement officials expect additional details to emerge as the investigations continue.

Prosecutors must now navigate the challenges of presenting digital evidence and protecting young victims' privacy while pursuing justice. The cases highlight growing concerns about online predators using social media platforms to target vulnerable minors.

Impact on School Community and Child Safety

The allegations against McCaffery sent shockwaves through the Riverhead school community despite assurances that no local students were involved. Parents and educators grappled with questions about how to better protect children from online predators who may hold positions of trust.

The case prompted discussions about strengthening background checks and monitoring systems for school employees. Educational experts emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication with students about online safety and reporting suspicious behavior.

Local law enforcement agencies used the case to highlight the need for increased vigilance and education about digital dangers. They urged parents to closely monitor their children's social media activities and maintain open discussions about online safety.

Investigation Summary and Next Steps

Ryan McCaffery faces serious allegations of targeting minors for explicit content through social media platforms while posing as a minor himself. The former Riverhead High School teacher's arrest resulted from a New York State Police cybercrime investigation that uncovered evidence of predatory behavior across state lines.

The suspect now navigates legal proceedings in both Suffolk County and Bergen County, with upcoming court appearances scheduled for this week and next month.

While school officials maintain no local students were victimized, the case has sparked a renewed focus on protecting children from online predators who may abuse positions of authority.