Chandler Price, who has taught at the Spring Branch Independent School District for three years, recently appeared in probable cause court, where prosecutors detailed a disturbing digital trail. According to court records, Price did not just possess the material but was actively communicating with a co-defendant in Ohio to trade illicit images.
During his initial appearance, prosecutors read aloud messages allegedly sent by Price. In one exchange regarding the exchange of child pornography, Price reportedly responded, "lol sure." Other alleged texts included Price telling a co-defendant, "I have a dude who's 14 if you're interested lol," and "you really love underage."
The investigation revealed that some of the images in Price's possession featured children under the age of 10, with some victims appearing to be between 5 and 8 years old.
Spring Branch ISD confirmed that Price is currently on leave from Northbrook Middle School. The district sent an email to parents informing them of the arrest, a move that left many families reeling.
"I'm still in shock," Carolina Ferman, whose son was in Price's class last year, said. "You hear stories from other districts and schools, but never this close to home."
Ferman noted that she had never heard reports of inappropriate behavior during her son's time in the classroom, making the current charges even more surprising.
A magistrate judge set Price's bond at $250,000. If he posts bond, Price is required to stay at least 200 feet away from any school. He also can not live within 1,000 feet of any location where children typically gather.