Former NYC Teacher Charged with Distribution of Child Pornography via Messaging App

• A 31-year-old former New York City teacher was arrested for distribution and possession of child pornography.
• The individual allegedly distributed links containing explicit material via an online app.
• The two charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison each.

A former acting school teacher in New York City was arrested on charges of distributing and possessing child pornography between January and April 2023 via an online messaging app.

Samuel Gonzalez, 31, reportedly used the app to distribute links containing over 1,500 files of explicit material to an undercover federal agent. 

A subsequent search of his Brooklyn residence in June 2023 revealed over 80 unique additional files stored on his devices, including explicit images and videos of children under 12 years old.  

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York announced the arrest of Gonzalez on Monday. The complaint details Gonzalez’s alleged crimes, including the distribution of thousands of explicit files depicting the exploitation of minors, some of which involve infants and toddlers.  

The individual, who also worked as an actor and theater producer, was apprehended following a months-long investigation. 

The charges filed against Gonzalez include the distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to a maximum of 20 years in prison, and possession of child pornography, which also has a maximum sentence of 20 years.  

Officials stress that all charges are allegations, and Gonzalez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. 

The case underscores the ongoing efforts of federal authorities to address harmful crimes involving the exploitation of minors and highlights the critical role of collaboration between agencies.