U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary | U.S. Department of Justice
A former teacher from Central Georgia has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for possessing child sexual abuse material. Christian Baumgarth, aged 28 and residing in Atlanta, received the sentence from U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on November 20. In addition to his prison term, Baumgarth will undergo 25 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender upon his release. He had previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on July 8.
U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary stated, "People who possess photos and videos of child sexual abuse material perpetuate the victimization of vulnerable children." He emphasized the commitment to work with law enforcement and advocacy groups to address online child exploitation.
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta, commented on Baumgarth's position in the community, saying, "In his role as a teacher, volunteer and coach, Mr. Baumgarth held positions of trust... while simultaneously exploiting the innocence of children behind closed doors."
The investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began during the summer of 2023 when agents were examining individuals using encrypted applications to distribute such materials. At that time, Baumgarth was employed as a teacher and coach at First Presbyterian Day School in Macon and served as a volunteer leader at Northway Church's student ministry.
On August 1, 2023, federal agents executed a search warrant at Baumgarth's residence in Macon and seized electronic devices containing images and videos of child sexual abuse material. His employment at FPD was terminated following this action.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative started by the Justice Department in May 2006 aimed at combating child exploitation and abuse nationwide.
For those with information about suspected child sexual exploitation, reports can be made to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children via their hotline or online reporting system.
The investigation was carried out by HSI with support from the FBI. The prosecution was handled by Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes.
