Glendale Preschool Worker Accused of Viewing Child Pornography on Dark Web

Authorities say Manuel Pantoja admitted to accessing CSAM marketplace and downloading explicit materials.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A 34-year-old Glendale man who works as a preschool assistant and after-school teacher has been charged with possessing sexually explicit materials depicting minors. Investigators say Manuel Pantoja admitted to creating an account on a 'dark net child pornography marketplace' in 2024 and downloading several images and videos.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the safety of children in Pantoja's care, as well as the broader issue of child exploitation and the use of the dark web to access illegal content. It highlights the need for thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of individuals working with vulnerable youth populations.

The details

According to court records, investigators were led to Pantoja through a Cash App account that had allegedly made transactions with a website described as a 'CSAM marketplace.' When interviewed by federal agents, Pantoja reportedly admitted to creating a dark web account in 2024 and downloading child sexual abuse materials. Authorities say a search of Pantoja's cell phone uncovered materials 'consistent with CSAM.'

  • Pantoja allegedly created a dark web account in 2024.
  • Investigators executed search warrants and interviewed Pantoja earlier this week.

The players

Manuel Pantoja

A 34-year-old Glendale man who worked as a preschool assistant and after-school teacher and is accused of possessing child sexual abuse materials.

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What they’re saying

“Pantoja described himself as working as a preschool assistant and an after school teacher for a Phoenix elementary school. He claimed to have had 'urges' while he was working but denied touching children inappropriately at his job.”

— Manuel Pantoja, Preschool Worker

What’s next

Pantoja is facing federal charges related to the possession of child pornography. The case is ongoing, and authorities are likely to continue investigating the extent of Pantoja's alleged involvement with the dark web and child exploitation materials.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for thorough background checks, ongoing monitoring, and robust safeguards to protect children in the care of adults, even in trusted positions like preschools and schools. It also highlights the pervasive and disturbing issue of child sexual abuse materials on the dark web, which requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to combat.