Loudoun Art Teacher Accused of Distributing Child Porn Taught at Ashburn, Leesburg Schools

Investigators are seeking information that could shed light on child pornographer distribution case.

On Sept. 10, the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit – working a join investigation with the NOVA/DC Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Department of Homeland Security – arrested Ralph Watts Conrad III, 43, an art teacher at Algonkian Elementary School in Sterling. He was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. Loudoun County Public Schools students do not appear to have been involved in what has been investigated thus far, according to an LCSO report.

Conrad is currently on administrative leave from LCPS pending the outcome of the investigation. He has been with the school system for about 15 years. An assistant principal at Freedom High School in South Riding once was charged with child pornography charges because of images he confiscated from a student; he was ultimately cleared of the charges.

Conrad has served at other schools in Loudoun, including Frances Hazel Reid Elementary in Leesburg; Belmont Station, Legacy, Mill Run and Creighton’s Corner elementary schools in Ashburn; and Lowe’s Island Elementary in Sterling.

Authorities continue to investigate the case. Additional charges are possible, but not imminent. Anyone who may have information about the case is asked to contact Detective P. Beaver at (703) 777-0475.

Conrad III remains held at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center without bond.