Aiken, SC – Michael Poda, 34, a band teacher at Schofield Middle School in Aiken, South Carolina, has been charged with five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Authorities say the arrest followed a tip received by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, prompting an investigation that led to his arrest.
Arrest Follows Discovery of Explicit Content on Band Teacher’s Phone
According to the arrest warrant, investigators recovered explicit images involving girls between the ages of 10 and 12, as well as a video involving a girl believed to be between 12 and 14 years old. The material was found on Poda’s phone, officials reported.
Poda had been employed by the school for the past two years. Aiken County School District officials confirmed they were informed of the arrest Wednesday morning and have since placed Poda on administrative leave.
Released on Bond as Investigation Continues
Poda was taken into custody and held briefly at the Aiken County Detention Center. He was released on Thursday on a $15,000 bond. No further details about court dates or legal proceedings have been announced at this time.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
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When allegations of sexual abuse surface against a trusted educator, families are often left with questions about how to protect their children and hold responsible parties accountable. Veteran South Carolina attorney James Moore addresses the pressing legal options available for victims and their loved ones, offering clear guidance for navigating both criminal actions and civil claims in the aftermath of abuse by a teacher…