The FBI is investigating a music director at St. Agnes Cathedral for possible child exploitation, according to the Diocese of Rockville Centre.
The diocese identified the man as Michael Wustrow. He spent decades working for the parish, as well as the Diocese of Rockville Centre, most recently as the co-director of music. He's known by many parishioners as the person who played the organ during church services, and directed the choir.
Diocese officials say they learned of the probe this week, when federal authorities seized Wustrow's work computer.
Parishioners here were surprised to hear about it. Some say they are standing by Wustrow, including choir singer Olivia Meyerback.
"This is not something he would ever do. He's deeply religious. In 22 years I've never seen him do anything inappropriate, I've never seen him make any kind of inappropriate comment," she says.
The diocese says it is cooperating with the investigation and says anyone who wants information about the matter should call its Office for the Protection of Children at 516-678-5800 Ext. 573 or 516-594-9063.