Texas Middle School Principal Arrested for Child P0rn

LIBERTY, TX — Dr. Chad Dwight Barrett, 56, principal of Hardin Middle School, was arrested on November 14 by the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division on charges of possession and promotion of child pornography, a third-degree felony.

The investigation began when a juvenile student and his mother reported to the Sheriff’s Office that the student had received a social media video believed to be sent by Barrett. Investigators were made aware early in the investigation that Barrett served as the principal of Hardin Middle School.

Authorities visited Hardin Middle School, where Barrett cooperated and provided a statement. During the investigation, detectives reportedly discovered images and videos of child pornography on Barrett’s personal cell phone, leading to his arrest.

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office has advised parents of students at Hardin Middle School to talk with their children and check for any inappropriate messages, photos, or videos they may have received from Barrett. If any such material is found, parents are urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately at 936-336-4500 and request to speak with an investigator.

Captain David Meyers, a spokesperson for the department, emphasized the importance of monitoring children’s online interactions. “I encourage all parents who have kids with cell phones, or access to social media, to monitor who your child is communicating with on social media, for the protection of your child,” Meyers said.