Welcome to Arrest Stories. A fifty-three-year-old Idaho pastor faces thirteen counts of child exploitation after investigators say he used artificial intelligence to create and distribute horrific images through an anonymous messaging app. Here's what may have happened.
Matthew Masiewicz served as senior pastor at Sovereign Grace Fellowship in Nampa when his secret digital activities allegedly came to light. According to investigators, the religious leader used the anonymous messaging app Kik under the username GeneralAbner to distribute child sexual abuse materials within a group called Church Pastors.
The investigation began in August twenty twenty-five when Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children was notified after six files of child pornography were reportedly sent through Kik. ICAC traced email addresses, usernames, and two IP addresses back to Masiewicz, with some illegal content allegedly uploaded from the church's own internet connection.
What makes this case particularly disturbing is the alleged use of artificial intelligence. Investigators say Masiewicz used AI technology to alter adult pornography images to make women appear as children, essentially creating new child exploitation material. When confronted by detectives, Masiewicz initially denied involvement but reportedly confessed when investigators referenced his Kik activity, stating "I'm going to own this."
The pastor allegedly told investigators he had deleted the app in an effort to "walk in repentance" and denied any physical contact with children. However, authorities discovered videos of children on his phone and computer.
The judge set bail at two million dollars, stating "This is somebody who is vocally a pastor. He's in a position of trust. This has been going on for months. The images are horrific as described. This is not a situation where he should be getting out under any circumstances."
Sovereign Grace Fellowship's Elder Board immediately removed Masiewicz from leadership, calling his actions "a grievous sin" that he "hid thoroughly." They urged anyone with relevant knowledge to contact church officials, emphasizing "The truth must come to light."
All suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Do not take this report as factual, always verify facts. Thanks for watching Arrest Stories.