U.S. ATTORNEY ALLEGES:
TEACHER SENT,
GOT CHILD PORN
OVER INTERNET
CCS Instructor, Coach Held In Syracuse
By LIBBY CUDMORE • Special to www.AllOTSEGO.com
COOPERSTOWN – The Cooperstown Central School physical-education teacher arrested this morning received and distributed child pornography over the Internet, the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District confirmed in a just-issued press release.
The teacher, Justin Hobbie, 41, Springfield Center, used peer-to-peer file-sharing services, a federal crime, the statement alleges. An initial review of Hobbie’s desktop computer allegedly revealed numerous incriminating files.
He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks. She ordered him detained pending a hearing, scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12, in Syracuse Federal Court.
CLICK TO READ U.S. ATTORNEY’S PRESS RELEASE
The federal Department of Homeland Security assisted state police in making the arrest. Reached this afternoon, CCS school board President Marcy Birch confirmed, “The district is working with the District Attorney’s office and Homeland Security.”
In September, Hobbie resigned as the coach of the modified girls track team.
Although his classes were being taught this morning by retired coach and math teacher Frank Miosek, Supt. of Schools Bill Crankshaw wouldn’t say if Hobbie is still on the payroll, calling it a personnel matter.
“Safety is our primary concern for all students and staff,” he added.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Hobbie has taught health and physical education at the school since 2005. Previously, he worked at Pathfinder Village and ONC Boces. Hobbie also served on the Town of Springfield Planning Board.
If convicted, Hobbie faces at least five years and up to 20 years in prison, a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life, and a fine of up to $250,000. Additionally, if convicted, Hobbie would be required to register as a sex offender.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security’s Albany office, with help from the State Police Computer Crimes Unit, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and U.S. Customs & Border Protection Air & Marine Operations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey J. L. Brown is prosecuting.
Anyone with information relevant to this investigation may call Homeland Security at (518) 220-2129.