A former teacher from Central Georgia has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Christian Baumgarth, 28, of Atlanta, received his sentence on November 20 from U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell. Following his prison term, he will undergo 25 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender. Baumgarth had 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 ongoing efforts with law enforcement and child advocacy groups to combat online sexual exploitation.
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta, remarked on Baumgarth's breach of trust: "In his role as a teacher, volunteer and coach, Mr. Baumgarth held positions of trust in the community while simultaneously exploiting the innocence of children behind closed doors."
The investigation began during the summer of 2023 when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents were tracking individuals using encrypted applications to distribute CSAM. At that time, Baumgarth was employed as a teacher and coach at First Presbyterian Day School in Macon and volunteered at Northway Church's student ministry.
On August 1, 2023, federal agents executed a search warrant at Baumgarth’s residence in Macon. This led to the seizure of several electronic devices containing illicit images and videos. Following this action, First Presbyterian Day School terminated his employment.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the Justice Department in May 2006 to tackle child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide.
The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations with support from the FBI. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the government.