A Libertyville middle school social studies teacher is facing felony charges related to using artificial intelligence to generate child sex abuse materials of students.
Marshall Sheffer, 44, was arrested Friday and charged with eight counts of child pornography, according to the Lake County state’s attorney’s office.
Sheffer, who taught at Highland Middle School in Libertyville for 18 years, became the target of an investigation by authorities earlier this year when students reported he was video recording them to other teachers.
Investigators obtained Sheffer’s phone and an examination revealed “numerous images of students that had been altered using artificial intelligence to create explicit images,” according to a joint news release from the state’s attorney and Libertyville police.
Additional electronic devices were recovered from Sheffer’s home and examined before charges were filed, authorities said.
He is due in court Sunday for a detention hearing.
Libertyville Elementary District 70 Superintendent Rebecca Jenkins issued a lengthy message to parents Friday as well about the case.
“Criminal allegations involving an educator are upsetting and unsettling for students, families and staff,” she wrote. “Supporting our students’ well-being is our immediate focus.”
The district is making a number of resources available to students.
Jenkins also outlined some of the allegations against Sheffer, noting the district became aware of the accusations on the second to last day of school, June 3.
“Mr. Sheffer was immediately removed from the classroom and placed on administrative leave that day,” she wrote. “We anticipate (school) board action on this matter as soon as possible.”
She added that administrators and the board are reviewing the district’s policy regarding use of personal technology by staff during the school day as well.
Anyone who might have additional details about this case is urged to contact Libertyville police at (847) 362-8310.
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