A teacher in Colorado found himself behind bars after he was accused of exploiting a child following an investigation that lasted more than one month.
The Colorado Springs Police Department announced that Nicholas Madson was arrested on Wednesday, October 14, and has been charged with soliciting a child for unlawful sexual conduct using computer services.
Madson, 41, was first put on authorities’ radar when the department received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on September 9 claiming that a man in Colorado Springs had been communicating with a juvenile girl in Florida online.
An investigation was launched into the matter, and a detective with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office in Florida contacted the potential victim. The official then learned that the child had allegedly sent explicit videos and photos to Madson.
It’s not currently clear how Madson and the victim first connected or how long they were in contact before he was arrested.
Detectives later learned that Madson worked as a teacher at the CIVA Charter High School in Colorado Springs.
Following his arrest, the CIVA Charter High School confirmed to the outlet that Madson had been hired at the school in 2019 and that he worked as a theater teacher. He has been placed on leave in light of the allegations.
“The safety and well-being of our students has always been and will always remain, our highest priority. We have cooperated fully with law enforcement and will continue to do so throughout this investigation,” the school said in a statement obtained by KOAA. “We recognize the gravity of these allegations and the concern they understandably create within our school community. As this is an ongoing law enforcement matter involving an employee, we are unable to comment further on the investigation or confidential personnel matters.”
It is not currently clear whether Madson has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Colorado Springs Police Department had no additional updates to share when contacted by Us about the case.
The investigation into the allegations remains active.
Police have asked that anyone who may have had inappropriate contact with Madson contact the Colorado Springs Police Department at 719-444-7000. Additionally, authorities would like those with information that could assist in the investigation to also reach out. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Pikes Peak Crime Stoppers at 719-634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.
Parents, teachers and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
