KENTWOOD, Mich. — A custodian at a Kent County elementary school is accused of possessing child sexually abusive material.
Michigan State Police confirmed to FOX 17 that Benjamin Baine is a second-shift custodian at Discovery Elementary School. That means Baine worked after normal school hours, and did not have contact with any of the students.
Troopers said they don’t believe any criminal activity happened on school property. So far, the investigation shows all criminal acts in question occurred at Baine's home in Ottawa County.
Still, MSP says this is a good reminder for parents and their children to be safe online.
Lt. Michelle Robinson told FOX 17 Friday, “It’s really important that, not only the parents know how to protect their children, but that the children know that, what they may think is innocent on their gaming systems or on their electronic devices, that they know that it could be somebody that their intention isn’t just to play video games with them.”
Robinson said local law enforcement agencies have a task force to address these very cases. It's called the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Part of their job is to put together resources for kids on how to make smart choices, and for parents on how to monitor activity.
“A lot of times what we like to tell them is, ‘Would you allow a stranger into your home to sit down and come and chat with your child?'" Robinson said. "If the answer is no, then why are you allowing the children to go into their bedrooms on their devices and talk to whomever they want on their electronic devices.’”
Baine is charged with having child porn and using a computer to commit a crime. He was arraigned on Thursday.
Kentwood Public Schools said Baine has been placed on leave pending the results of the investigation.
"While the issues do not involve the district, we have high expectations for the conduct of our employees,” said Superintendent Kevin Polston. “When behaviors are not aligned with district expectations, we will take disciplinary action, which at times may result in termination.”
MSP urges parents to have discussions with their children on how to safely navigate the Internet. View more resources at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the MSP Computer Crimes Unit.
If you believe a child has been sexually exploited, report it here.
