Florida school psychologist for special needs children arrested on child pornography charges

Authorities in Florida have charged a school psychologist for special needs children with seven felony counts of possessing and distributing child pornography.

The Miami-Dade Police Department says Robert Lee Turner, 62, was arrested after an investigation stemming from a cyber tip it received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Investigators say an Instagram tipster came forward May 25 alleging Turner had distributed two videos depicting child sexual abuse. They were then able to trace the associated IP address and cell phone number to Turner and obtain a warrant. 

The two videos reportedly show naked pre-teens having sex. Authorities say the videos were distributed to at least 50 different users. 

The report also indicates Turner had several thumbnail images of children engaged in sex acts. 

When they served the warrant, police say he barricaded himself in his bathroom, adding a misdemeanor for resisting arrest to his list of charges. 

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy Glazer placed Turner on house arrest, ordered him to wear a GPS monitor and set his bond at $28,000 while he awaits disposition. She also restricted his internet usage to attorney contacts only and issued a no-contact order for anyone under the age of 18. 

His public defender argued against house arrest. 

“The state has not articulated any degree or sense of danger to the community that my client is going to do something,” the public defender said. 

Judge Glazer disagreed, citing the prosecutor’s assertion, “[Turner] had contact with students who’ve graduated and have special needs,” and that he wanted to prevent “any continued contact with them.” 

Miami-Dade Public Schools expressed concern but wouldn’t specify which school he worked at, saying he was assigned as needed. However, the district did confirm Turner has been fired and would be barred from future employment in the district.  

“Miami-Dade County Public Schools is deeply troubled by the disturbing allegations made against this individual. This type of behavior will not be tolerated. As such, the individual’s employment with the District has been terminated and he will be precluded from seeking future employment with M-DCPS.”