A 24-year-old Brookline man who formerly worked for the town as a lifeguard and swim coach was arrested by federal agents on Thursday on charges of sexually exploiting children.
Scott Cunha, a Clark Road resident, allegedly used the messaging app Snapchat to correspond with at least a dozen minors between the ages of 10 and 16 in seven states between 2022 and 2024, according to an affidavit filed in federal court Thursday by the FBI.
The affidavit alleges that he coerced at least five of them into sending him sexual images, often in exchange for money or financial favors, though he is only charged with the production of child pornography in connection with one of those minors. The affidavit says that the FBI’s investigation is continuing. The minors are not identified, and it is not clear from the affidavit whether any of them live in Brookline.
The affidavit lays out a number of highly graphic, explicit conversations that he had with the minors over Snapchat.
Cunha allegedly met at least one minor in person as well, after sending a rideshare car to pick her up at her K-8 school and meeting at a mall, according to the affidavit. She alleged that he touched her inappropriately while there.
The Department of Justice said in a statement that anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Cunha should call (617) 748-3274.
Cunha worked as a part-time employee for the town of Brookline between Sept. 2019 and July 2022, according to a statement from the town.
“We have no evidence at this time that the circumstances of this case are related to his employment,” spokesperson Christina Metcalf said in the statement. “We understand this news may be concerning to our community, and our thoughts are especially with those who have been harmed.”
The town referred further questions to the FBI.
Cunha’s father, a former state official named Glenn Cunha, told the Boston Globe that Scott was a victim of abuse and neglect and had been adopted through the Department of Children and Families.
“We love our son,” Cunha told the Globe. “He has struggled with learning disabilities, significant learning disabilities, and mental health issues since we adopted him. And we have sought treatment in multiple forums over the years.”
Scott Cunha appeared in U.S. District Court in Boston on Thursday and was ordered held until his next hearing on Jan. 29.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.