Austin elementary school teacher used AI to create explicit images of students, principal says
The school's principal reported that the teacher used AI to produce inappropriate material with photos of students. The teacher's actions have raised serious concerns within the school community. Authorities are investigating the matter to determine the extent of the teacher's actions and ensure the safety of the students. The school is taking necessary steps to address the situation and support the affected students and their families. The incident highlights the importance of safeguarding students and ensuring appropriate use of technology in educational settings.
Teacher at Baranoff Elementary Faces New Charges Related to AI-Generated Materials
Carl Innmon, a fifth-grade teacher at Baranoff Elementary, is facing two new charges that the school's principal says are stemming from AI-generated materials made from photos of students in his own classroom.
Details of the Case
An Austin ISD elementary school teacher used AI to create explicit material using photos of students in his classroom, says Baranoff Elementary principal Alex Hassett. Carl David Innmon, aged 50, was arrested on a charge of first-degree felony possession of child pornography and is now facing additional charges. Innmon taught fifth grade at Baranoff Elementary in southwest Austin.
According to Hassett, Innmon has been charged with possession of child pornography. He is currently in the Travis County jail, with bond set at a collective $30,000 for the new charges. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, April 10.
Principal's Statement
"I am deeply saddened to share that the latest charges stem from AI-generated materials he created using photos of students within his classroom. DPS and Austin ISD Police are working to identify and inform any families involved," said Hassett in the letter.
Investigation Details
Court paperwork filed on March 13 revealed that investigators identified a computer, registered to Innmon, actively sharing child sexual abuse material. A search warrant was executed, leading to the seizure of electronic devices containing such material. The investigation is ongoing.
Austin ISD police are collaborating with the Texas Department of Public Safety to further investigate the case, as stated by Principal Hassett.
Support and Resources
Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact AISD police. Families in need of support are encouraged to reach out to Integral Care for mental health assistance. The school is planning to provide ongoing support through district counseling and mental health services.
The school is also consulting with the Center for Child Protection, a nonprofit organization that aids child abuse victims in Travis County.
Source: Information in this report comes from a March 15 letter to Baranoff families sent by Principal Alex Hassett, an arrest affidavit filed on March 13, and Travis County jail and court records.