Valentine teacher arrested for possession, promotion of child pornography

By Shanna Cummings

A teacher at Valentine ISD was arrested on the evening of March 15 at his home for alleged promotion of child pornography, and is pending federal charges for alleged possession and distribution involving child pornography.

Albert Ackley, 59, is being held without bond at Hudspeth County Jail after law enforcement conducted a search warrant of his residence.

The search warrant and arrest were conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) – Criminal Investigations Special Agents, assisted by Homeland Security Investigations, Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Highway Patrol.

Ackley is cooperating with law enforcement, providing additional information pertinent to the investigation.

DPS urges those with information about possible victims related to this case to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety Victim Services office at 512-424-2211.

Valentine ISD Superintendent Debbie Engle responded Wednesday to the arrest via email, informing parents that the school district was aware of the arrest, and would fully cooperate with the investigation. She added, “parent concerns will be addressed on an individual, as-needed basis as the district receives official and factual information.”

Possession and Promotion of child pornography have different criteria, and carry different sentences. Possession of child pornography (or exploitative material) in Texas is a third-degree felony, with a maximum sentence of 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000 for a first offense, and up to 20 years for a second offense. Promotion, a charge which often accompanies Possession, requires six or more images that qualify as child pornography. This charge is punishable by up to 20 years incarceration for a first offense and up to 99 years for a second offense, as well as up to $10,000 in fines.

Federal charges carry 15 year minimum sentences if convicted.

Those convicted of Possession or Promotion of Child Pornography usually must also register as a sex offender.

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