Alejandro F. Santos, a teacher’s aide employed by the New York City Department of Education at a Bronx public school for children with disabilities, was arraigned in Brooklyn federal court on charges related to child pornography. Santos, who has worked for the Department of Education for 23 years, faces allegations of transporting and possessing child pornography.
The arraignment took place before United States Magistrate Judge Vera M. Scanlon. According to court filings, Santos was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at John F. Kennedy International Airport on July 15, 2025, after arriving from the Dominican Republic. Officers acted on a law enforcement alert indicating he was likely in possession of child sexual abuse material. During the inspection, Santos provided his iPhone to authorities, who reportedly found thousands of photographs and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children.
Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Ricky J. Patel, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York; and Francis J. Russo, Director of New York Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), announced the charges.
“The defendant, who held a position of trust as a teacher’s aide in a New York City elementary school, is charged with possessing photos and videos depicting horrific sexual abuse of children,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Our Office is committed to identifying and prosecuting individuals like the defendant who possess such images, which contribute to the depraved market for child pornography and the victimization of vulnerable minors.”
“The details of Alejandro Santos’ alleged crimes are among every parent’s worst nightmare. This defendant worked closely with young kids nearly every day over the course of 23 years. Protecting minors from individuals like this defendant is not only paramount, it’s personal. I implore any person who believes they have information related to crimes involving Santos to contact authorities as soon as possible,” stated HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Patel.
“This case underscores the vital role CBP plays in identifying potential criminal activity during border inspections,” stated CBP Director Russo. “Our officers are dedicated to protecting the public, safeguarding our children from exploitation, and collaborating with partner agencies to ensure thorough investigations are conducted.”
If convicted on transportation charges related to child sexual abuse material, Santos faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and up to 20 years in prison.
The government’s case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth D’Antonio from the General Crimes Section.
Anyone with information about criminality involving Santos is encouraged to contact HSI New York at hsinyhumanexploitation@hsi.dhs.gov.
Santos is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
