Feds say they arrested a former priest after he admitted to having child pornography on his computer

NOVI (WXYZ) - Federal agents said they have arrested a Novi man after he admitted to having hundreds of images of child pornography on his computer.

According to investigators, he was also distributing the material and it is believed the suspect is a former priest.

A lot evidence was seized from Timothy Murray’s Novi condominium Wednesday by Homeland Security Investigations agents right after a search warrant was obtained.

The 62-year-old went to the Novi Police Department to be interviewed, according to investigators.

Records state Murray admitted to having about 500 child pornography pictures and videos on his computer.  According to police reports, Murray told investigators he prefers 13-year-old boys.

Murray told officers, he was priest within the Detroit Arch-Diocese but was removed in 2004 when it came to light that Murray had inappropriate contact with a 13-year-old about 30 years ago.

Many who live Murray’s quiet neighborhood told 7 Action News they don’t know the former priest.

The Department of Homeland Security has been investigating Murray since the spring. Agents stated in reports they found a lot of evidence that indicates Murray shared child pornography with others.

He is now charged with Possession Of Child Pornography, Distribution Of Child Pornography, and Receipt Of Child Pornography.

Possession Of Child Pornography is a 10 year felony. Both Distribution and Receipt Of Child Pornography are felonies punishable up to 20 years in prison.

Murray will be back in court on Friday for a detention hearing.

He will be in federal custody with the U.S. Marshalls.