The Cleveland Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Northwest Ohio Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force announce the arrest of Zachary Ryan Balusik, 39 years old, of Toledo, Ohio. Balusik has been charged with Possession and/or Access with intent to View Child Pornography and Receipt and/or distribution of Child Pornography.

On February 23, 2022, members of the FBI’s Northwest Ohio Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force executed a federal search warrant of Balusik, his Toledo residence, and any other electronics located at the premises. During execution of the search warrant at the residence, investigators located two thumb or flash drives. An on-scene preview of the devices revealed child pornography, including child pornography depicting prepubescent children. On that same date, investigators interviewed BALUSIK outside of his residence. Balusik admitted to receiving and viewing child pornography, advising that he began approximately 12 to 13 years ago in 2009 or 2010.

Balusik confirmed that he was employed as a nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital in the Toledo area. He stated that he works as a supervisor a couple days of the week and then works as a charge nurse one day of the week. Any pertinent information from the public regarding Balusik can be provided to the FBI Toledo Office, 419-243-6122.

Balusik had his initial appearance in front of United States District Court Magistrate Judge James R. Knepp II on February 24, 2022. This matter is considered an ongoing investigation and no further information outside of the federal complaint affidavit can be released. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Any questions regarding this press release can be directed to Special Agent Patrick Lentz at 216-522-1400 or at pblentz@fbi.gov.