A New York state trooper has been arrested on child sexual exploitation-related charges after allegedly filming two children in a bathroom and possessing thousands of images and videos of child pornography, according to the FBI.
Federal prosecutors charged Steven Calderon of Orange County on Thursday and he was ordered held in custody following an appearance in federal court in White Plains. Prosecutors released his photo (above) and said there may be other alleged child victims.
The FBI discovered an alleged stash of child pornography after searching the electronic devices of the 43-year-old man in connection with an unrelated assault. His alleged victims included a 10-year-old girl who was filmed taking off her clothes in July 2026, prosecutors said. Another 9-year-old child was allegedly filmed in 2023. Investigators say he then secretly recorded them and posted the explicit images.
“These alleged actions represent a profound betrayal of the public trust and the oath he swore to uphold,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald.
Calderon, a state police sergeant since 2022, faces two counts of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of child pornography. If convicted, he could face up to 80 years in prison.
“This case should serve as a warning: No badge, title or position can protect those who prey on children, and justice will find you,” said FBI Assistant Director James Barnacle.
Calderon lives in Crawford and works for the State Police in Middletown. His previous arrest on Oct. 25 was related to domestic violence charges, and he was charged with second- and third-degree assault.
Calderon’s attorney would not comment on the allegations against his client when reached for comment.