Daytona Beach, FL - Holly Hill authorities announced the arrest of 47-year-old sixth-grade teacher David R. McKeown, who faces 19 counts of possessing child pornography and six counts of sexual activities involving animals. Police confirmed McKeown’s arrest on Friday following a joint investigation involving multiple agencies.
Judge Sets Bond at More Than $1.2 Million
McKeown made his first court appearance Saturday morning, where a judge set bond at $50,000 per charge, totaling $1,250,000. The judge also ruled that if McKeown is released, he must not contact anyone under 18 and is prohibited from accessing the internet.
Investigation Reveals Child Porn on Teacher's Social Media
Detectives launched the investigation in early June after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. According to the Holly Hill Police Department, officers executed search warrants at McKeown’s home and at UBIC Academy, the school where he taught sixth-grade. Multiple electronic devices were confiscated for forensic examination.
Disturbing Evidence Found on Social Media
With assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Cyber Crimes Task Force and the state attorney general’s office, investigators searched McKeown’s social media accounts. Authorities say 19 images of child sexual abuse material and six images depicting sexual activity with animals were recovered.
Detectives also discovered messages in which McKeown allegedly shared personal details and photographs of UBIC Academy students with other users. Police said he appeared to use artificial intelligence tools to create explicit material involving minors.
Attorney General Condemns Acts as “Beyond Betrayal”
Attorney General James Uthmeier released a statement condemning McKeown’s actions, emphasizing the deep violation of parental trust. “As a teacher, parents trusted Mr. McKeown to impart knowledge to their children. Instead, he spent parts of the school day sending and receiving child sex abuse material and providing other pedophiles with UBIC Academy students’ personal information,” Uthmeier said. “What he did is beyond betrayal — it's devastating and sick. Our Office of Statewide Prosecution will aggressively pursue justice for these children and their parents.”
Accused Teacher Remains in Custody Amid Sex Crimes Charges
According to Holly Hill police, McKeown also documented sexual acts with the family pet as part of his criminal behavior. He remains in custody at the Volusia County Branch Jail as the investigation continues with state and federal assistance.
Florida Attorney Explains Legal Options for Victims After Teacher Sex Abuse Arrest
Following the recent arrest of a sixth-grade teacher accused of child pornography and sexual abuse crimes, concerns have grown among parents about legal protections for students. Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard discusses what options victims and their families have under state law when school employees exploit their position of trust.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a case like this involves a teacher accused of such horrific crimes, what legal paths exist for victims or their parents?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Families can pursue both criminal cooperation and civil actions. While the criminal case punishes the offender, civil claims allow families to seek compensation for the deep emotional and psychological harm caused. These cases often address failures within schools or institutions that may have overlooked warning signs.
Banville: Are schools held legally accountable in situations where an employee misuses their position?
Haggard: Yes, under Florida law, schools can be liable if negligence played a role in hiring, supervision, or reporting. If a school ignored complaints, failed to run background checks, or allowed inappropriate behavior to go unchecked, that institution might share responsibility.
Banville: What would you tell parents worried about their children’s safety after news like this?
Haggard: Pay attention to your child’s emotions and behavior, ask questions, and document anything that feels out of place. Most importantly, if something seems wrong, report it immediately—both to the authorities and, when necessary, to legal counsel who can guide families through their rights.
Support for Survivors and Families
Victims of sexual abuse and their families do not have to face the aftermath alone. Legal advocates are available to help hold offenders and negligent institutions accountable. If you or your child has been affected by abuse involving a teacher or school employee, contact our team today for a free and confidential consultation to learn your rights and next steps.
Source
https://www.wesh.com/article/florida-teacher-arrested-child-pornography-animal-abuse/65133724
