Law Professor Arrested On 50 Counts In Child Sexual Abuse Materials Case

Above the Law

by Kathryn Rubino

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A law professor and interim associate dean at Barry University, Glen‑Peter Ahlers, has been arrested on 50 charges of possessing materials depicting child sexual abuse. Prosecutors in Orange County, Florida, revealed that hundreds of thousands of images were allegedly found during a search of his devices. The university distanced itself from Ahlers, placing him on administrative leave and cooperating fully with law enforcement. The case has raised significant concerns due to the sheer volume of material reported by prosecutors. During Ahlers’s court appearance, it was disclosed that one of his devices contained photos of female students from specific angles, adding a layer of distress for the law school community. Despite these allegations, Ahlers’s defense counsel highlighted mitigating factors, such as his age and lack of prior criminal history, to argue for a lower bond. The judge ultimately set a $100,000 bond, with $2,000 required per count. This case is particularly disturbing due to the alleged scope of the material found and the fact that it involves a law professor—a position of trust within the academic community. It underscores the importance of vigilance in addressing crimes involving child sexual abuse materials, even among individuals in positions of authority. The legal implications extend beyond Ahlers’s personal situation, raising questions about how educational institutions ensure the safety and well-being of their students and faculty.

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Originally published on Above the Law on 2/19/2026