Florida teacher accused of using students’ yearbook photos for AI-generated child porn

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – A teacher at a Christian school in Florida was arrested Tuesday after he was accused of using yearbook photos of students to create AI-generated child pornography.

Steven Houser, 67, works as a third-grade science teacher at Beacon Christian Academy in New Port Richey, according to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).

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The sheriff’s office opened an investigation after receiving a tip about Houser. In a news release, PCSO said Houser had “two photos and three videos featuring child pornography” in his possession. The sheriff’s office said none of the media contained any students at the school.

Deputies found that Houser had AI-generated child pornography, which he admitted to creating with three student yearbook photos, according to PCSO.

“This is a new kind of way to exploit children. It’s not an avenue that you typically look into when you are looking at children being exploited. It is worrisome. It’s scary,” said Pasco County parent Rebecca Yuengling, who is unrelated to the three students.

The sheriff’s office said it hasn’t received any reports of additional victims.

Yuengling is looking to state lawmakers for answers. “We’re gonna have to … ask the legislators to be very tough on this,” she said. “Not a slap on the hand.”

Houser had returned this week to the classroom as a part-time teacher after taking a year off from teaching. School staff said all teachers must undergo background checks and that Houser had been cleared to teach.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim is asked to PCSO Crime Tips Line at 1-800-706-2488, or report tips online at the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office website.

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