Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the arrest of David McKeown, a sixth-grade teacher at UBIC Academy in Holly Hill. McKeown faces 19 enhanced felony counts of possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and six counts of possession of animal pornography. His arrest was carried out by the Holly Hill Police Department.
Attorney General Uthmeier commented on the situation: “As a teacher, parents trusted Mr. McKeown to impart knowledge to their children. Instead, he spent parts of the school day sending and receiving child sex abuse material and providing other pedophiles with UBIC Academy students’ personal information. What he did is beyond betrayal—it’s devastating and sick. Our Office of Statewide Prosecution will aggressively pursue justice for these children and their parents.”
The investigation began after the Holly Hill Police Department received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on June 2, 2025. The tip concerned reports of sexual exploitation involving children on the Internet.
Authorities believe that McKeown used artificial intelligence technology to create CSAM featuring real children, some possibly attending UBIC Academy. During school hours, while connected to the school’s Wi-Fi, he allegedly shared 19 images of CSAM and nine images depicting himself engaging in sexual acts with his family pet through Discord.
Detectives have seized multiple electronic devices for further examination as part of an ongoing investigation, with potential additional charges forthcoming.
Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Johnna Lessard is assigned to handle this case.
McKeown is currently held without bond at Volusia County Branch Jail. If convicted, he could face up to 315 years in prison.
Parents or guardians who suspect their child may be involved are urged to contact Victim Advocate Coordinator Daisy Gonzalez at 386-248-9435. Those with information about this case should reach out to Detective Corporal Kelsey Palm at 386-492-0415 or via email at Kpalm@hollyhillpd.org.
