Former Eanes ISD music teacher arrested in connection with online crimes against children
AUSTIN (KXAN) — A former elementary music teacher at Eanes Independent School District was arrested in connection with online crimes against children, Eanes ISD Superintendent Dr. Jeff Arnett confirmed in a release Wednesday.
Zachary Barnett previously worked as a music teacher at Cedar Creek Elementary and was employed with Eanes ISD for three years, per the release. The Texas Department of Public Safety’s Computer Information Technology and Electronic Crime (CITEC) Unit conducted the investigation that led to his arrest and apprehension, Eanes ISD said.
An attorney was not listed for Barnett in online court records, as of Wednesday. We will update this once that changes.
Officials confirmed the majority of illicit activity Barnett allegedly engaged in happened outside of work, but some photographs and videos of clothed students were found on a personal device not issued by the school district. Those were taken without students’ knowledge or consent, officials noted.
“We are saddened for any innocent children who may have been unknowingly objectified by an adult entrusted with their care and instruction,” Eanes ISD wrote in the release. “We understand this situation is disturbing. The Eanes ISD Police Department is helping to confirm which students’ images were found in the search. Those families whose children may be affected will be contacted directly by school district or DPS officials in the near future with further details.”
Eanes ISD confirmed Barnett had undergone a fingerprinted background check, as is standard for all employees to check for criminal records. Officials said Barnett wasn’t determined to have a prior history and “there were no indications of concern” prior to this incident.
Barnett resigned from his position on Feb. 15, with Eanes ISD officials adding he will not return to any district schools. Officials said they waited until he was taken into custody before making the announcement.
“In Eanes ISD, the emotional and physical safety of students remains our unwavering priority. That is why this is such difficult news to share,” the release concluded. “We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we navigate this upsetting situation together.”
