California AG Announces Arrest of Teacher for CSAM Possession

CA Attorney General Press Releases

Filed January 28th, 2026

Detected February 7th, 2026

Summary

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the arrest of a La Costa Canyon High School teacher for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The investigation found the teacher attempted to purchase CSAM online, and subsequent searches confirmed possession. This action highlights the state's commitment to prosecuting offenders and protecting children.

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What changed

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the arrest of a La Costa Canyon High School teacher for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The investigation, a collaboration between the California Department of Justice, Carlsbad Police Department, and FBI, revealed the teacher attempted to purchase CSAM online. Special Agents confirmed possession through searches of electronic devices. The case will be prosecuted by the California Department of Justice, Special Prosecutions Section.

This enforcement action underscores the severe consequences for individuals entrusted with the care of children who engage in illegal activities involving CSAM. While the complaint contains charges that are allegations, the arrest and ongoing prosecution signal a strong stance against such offenses. Employers, particularly educational institutions, should be aware of the rigorous investigation and prosecution efforts by law enforcement and the potential for severe legal repercussions for employees involved in such crimes.

Source document (simplified)

Attorney General Bonta Announces Arrest of La Costa Canyon High School Teacher for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

Press Release
Attorney General Bonta Announces Arrest of La Costa Canyon H… Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov SAN DIEGO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the arrest of a La Costa Canyon high school teacher in Carlsbad for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) after an investigation determined he attempted to purchase CSAM on the internet. Special Agents conducted subsequent searches of electronic devices in his control which further confirmed his possession and attempted possession of CSAM.

“When someone who is entrusted with the care of our youth is revealed to be harboring child sexual abuse material, it is not only a crime, but also a betrayal of trust,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Let me be clear: I will do everything in my power to fight for the safety and dignity of children. Protecting the most vulnerable among us is not just a responsibility of this office, it is a moral obligation. My office stands ready and fully committed to continuing this fight with the help of our law enforcement partners. We will work tirelessly to hold offenders accountable and to ensure that our children are protected, supported, and given the safe future they deserve.”

“We appreciate the outstanding work and professionalism of the Department of Justice, whose thorough investigation was instrumental in this arrest,” said Chief Christie Calderwood of the Carlsbad Police Department. “This case highlights the importance of strong interagency partnerships in keeping our communities safe.”
This investigation was conducted by the California Department of Justice, White Collar Investigation Team, the Carlsbad Police Department, and FBI’s Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory. The California Department of Justice, Special Prosecutions Section will be prosecuting the case.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint contains charges that are only allegations against a person. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.