A former teacher in Alabama was arrested after he was accused of having child sex abuse materials in his possession.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office announced that Justin Daniel MacMahon-Sessions was arrested on Wednesday, October 7, and has been charged with 16 counts of possession with intent to disseminate child sexual abuse material, according to ABC 3340.
An investigation into MacMahon-Sessions, 26, was launched in early April. It is not currently clear how MacMahon-Sessions got on their radar and what evidence officials obtained in order to arrest him.
Shelby County Schools confirmed that MacMahon-Sessions previously worked at Calera Intermediate School and that he was placed on administrative leave when the investigation began. He later resigned from his position.
The district said they have no reason to believe that any Shelby County students were involved, and the district is cooperating with the appropriate law enforcement agencies as the investigation into MacMahon-Sessions continues.
The sheriff’s office said that investigators currently have no information indicating that the images found in MacMahon-Sessions’s possession were produced in or near Shelby County.
Authorities have also said that MacMahon-Sessions may face additional charges once the investigation concludes.
MacMahon-Sessions was booked into the Shelby County Jail, and his bond was set at $480,000.
“Crimes involving the exploitation of children are among the most disturbing cases our investigators encounter,” Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego said in a statement following MacMahon-Sessions’s arrest, according to the Shelby County Reporter. “Those who possess or distribute this material contribute to the continued victimization of children, and we will work relentlessly to identify those responsible and hold them accountable. I am proud of the dedication of our investigators and their commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Authorities have asked that anyone with additional information regarding the case contact Investigator Watkins at 205-670-6153 or the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 205-670-6000. Meanwhile, those who wish to remain anonymous can submit tips to Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777 or through its website.
It is not currently clear if MacMahon-Sessions has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding updates in the story.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
