Introduction to the Case
A Chicago teacher has been charged with receiving and distributing child pornography. The Department of Justice said 27-year-old Jaron Woodsley shared images of child pornography last fall with another person on the social media platform Telegram.
While using Telegram, Woodsley reportedly distributed at least 13 videos and received six videos from the other person, who was indicted by a federal grand jury in the District of Colorado last year, according to investigators.
Arrest and Charges
Officials said Woodsley was arrested on the morning of Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, and appeared in Chicago court at 2 p.m. Woodsley has been charged with receiving and distributing child pornography, which are charges punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in a federal prison and a maximum of 20 years.
Response from Chicago Public Schools
Chicago Public Schools later confirmed Woodsley was a CPS teacher and issued the following statement: "Student safety is one of Chicago Public Schools’ highest priorities. The District was notified Friday, August 1 of charges involving CPS teacher Jaron Woodsley. Upon learning of the teacher’s arrest, the District immediately removed this individual from their position and the Office of Inspector General has opened an investigation. CPS will not hesitate to terminate an employee under established District policies and procedures."
Response from Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras
Furthermore, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras said Woodsley was a staff member with them and issued the following statement: We have learned that one of our part-time staff members was arrested for alleged receipt and distribution of child pornography. This alleged behavior is abhorrent and vile and completely inconsistent with both CYSO policies and the law. This individual was suspended immediately while we conduct our own investigation. CYSO staff has no reason to believe that any CYSO child has been impacted by these allegations.
Commitment to Student Safety
The safety of our students is our highest priority, and we are dedicated to maintaining a safe and nurturing environment for their learning and development. CYSO staff and community are deeply disheartened by this situation, and we will cooperate fully with appropriate authorities. For the past 80 years, CYSO has proven itself as an organization of excellence. We look forward to continuing that tradition at Lollapalooza tomorrow and in our upcoming season, said Jennie Oh Brown, Executive Director.
Reporting Sexual Exploitation
Anyone believing they are a victim of sexual exploitation is asked to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by going to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1-800-843-5678. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Conclusion
The case of Jaron Woodsley highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting children from exploitation. It is crucial for organizations and individuals to report any suspicious activity and cooperate with authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The safety and well-being of children must always be the top priority.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against Jaron Woodsley?
A: Jaron Woodsley has been charged with receiving and distributing child pornography.
Q: What is the potential sentence for these charges?
A: The charges are punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in a federal prison and a maximum of 20 years.
Q: How can victims of sexual exploitation report their cases?
A: Victims can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by going to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1-800-843-5678.
Q: What is the response of Chicago Public Schools to the arrest of Jaron Woodsley?
A: Chicago Public Schools has removed Jaron Woodsley from his position and opened an investigation into the matter.
Q: What is the response of Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras to the arrest of Jaron Woodsley?
A: Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras has suspended Jaron Woodsley and is conducting its own investigation into the matter.
