MADISON, Wis. — A Wisconsin high school teacher is charged with using hidden recording devices in an attempt to produce child pornography.
David M. Kruchten, age 37, was arrested Thursday morning at his home in Cottage Grove, Wisconsin. He was charged after an indictment was unsealed accusing Kruchten of attempting to produce child pornography. Specifically, the indictment charges the Madison East High School teacher with seven counts of "attempting to use a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct."
The indictment alleges that he attempted to produce the child pornography in Wisconsin using footage hidden recording devices on Oct. 27, 2019, and on Jan. 20, 2019.
“This indictment alleges criminal conduct that is an unconscionable betrayal of trust,” said Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul in a written statement. “Thank you to everyone whose hard work resulted in today’s arrest. We will continue working to ensure that there is full accountability for the crimes alleged in this case.”
If convicted, Kruchten faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years and a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison on each count.
On Dec. 7, 2019, hidden recording devices were also reported at the Minneapolis Hyatt Regency hotel, where students from Madison East were staying. In that case, the school district said a staff member was placed on leave "as a precautionary measure."
Minneapolis Police confirmed to KARE 11 that they are an investigative partner in the Wisconsin indictment that came down Thursday. However, charges have not been filed with regard to the Minneapolis investigation.
Police told KARE that the Minneapolis case was submitted to the Hennepin County Attorney's Office for consideration of possible charges on Jan. 29.
Kruchten's next court appearance in Wisconsin is scheduled for Feb. 5.