A former executive pastor at The Chapel in Getzville has pleaded guilty to sexually abusing two children, according to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
John Camardo III, 47, of Williamsville, entered his guilty plea in State Supreme Court on Monday. He admitted to one count of second-degree rape and one count of second-degree course of sexual conduct against a child. Camardo had served as executive pastor at The Chapel since 2012.
Details of the Case
Prosecutors say the abuse took place over roughly two years. Between April and May of 2024, Camardo had sexual intercourse with a victim who was under 15 years old.
Then, between April 2025 and June 2026, he engaged in sexual conduct with a second victim who was under 13. Investigators say Camardo knew both children personally, and the crimes took place in the Town of Amherst.
Camardo was taken into custody and held without bail. Temporary orders of protection have been issued to protect both victims. He is set to be sentenced on September 10 and could receive between six and eight years in prison.
His attorney, Barry Covert, said in a statement that Camardo has accepted full responsibility for what he did and feels deep remorse for the harm caused to his victims.
Church and Community React
The Chapel sent a message to its congregation addressing the case shortly after the district attorney’s announcement. Church leaders said they had spoken privately with Camardo before the news became public and urged him toward repentance.
They noted their safeguarding policies, which they said were developed years ago with help from outside safety experts, had been followed once concerns were raised.
According to the church, Camardo was placed on leave once allegations first surfaced and resigned days later. Leaders also said they reached out to Amherst police to offer cooperation early in the process.
The church maintained that, based on conversations with investigators, there is currently no indication that Camardo’s conduct extended to any of The Chapel’s ministries or events.
Camardo also had ties to youth sports in the area. The Amherst Soccer Association confirmed he had served as a coach and referee with the organization. In a statement, the group said it learned of the allegations and conviction through media reports and had no prior knowledge of the situation.
The association said it acted immediately to cut ties with Camardo once the news broke and is working with league officials on further steps. Leaders expressed sympathy for the victims and said the safety of everyone involved in their programs remains their highest priority.
The case remains active as sentencing approaches in September.
