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Elementary school worker arrested in 'crimes against children' investigation

Posted at 12:31 PM, Jan 09, 2023
and last updated 2023-01-09 18:21:52-05

COLONIAL HEIGHTS, Va. -- An elementary school computer specialist and substitute bus driver was arrested as part of an "internet crimes against children" investigation, according to the Colonial Heights Public Schools.

Richard Whitley worked at North Elementary School and was hired in 2018, the school system posted online.

"We understand that the investigation is ongoing and do not have any further information at this time," the post read. "Any Colonial Heights Public Schools students or parents who may need additional support at school should contact school administration."

Federal court documents unsealed Monday indicated pornographic videos involving children were being uploaded to an online group chat room.

Parent Morgan Hunter said Whitley was in charge of taking pictures of children at the school for its “Star Student of the Week” program.

"Just the picture taking and everything, I just don’t know what exactly he had and what everything was going on," she said. "Yeah, I am a little bit concerned."

CBS 6 senior reporter Wayne Covil is working to uncover additional information about this situation.

Anyone with more information can email newstips@wtvr.com to send a tip.

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