Former Colorado school employee arrested for child sex exploitation

Benjamin Rees charged with internet sexual exploitation and promotion of obscenity to a minor

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked smartphone screen reflecting a faint blue light, conceptually illustrating the digital exploitation of a minor.A cracked digital window into a disturbing case of alleged online predation, exposing the need for heightened safeguards in schools.Fort Collins Today

A 29-year-old former employee at Blevins Middle School in Fort Collins, Colorado has been arrested and charged with two counts of internet sexual exploitation of a child and one count of promotion of obscenity to a minor. Police say Rees attempted to engage in sexual activities with a juvenile female through a messaging app in late 2025, sending sexual images and trying to meet up with her.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat of online predators targeting minors and the importance of school districts closely vetting employees who may have access to or influence over vulnerable youth. It also raises questions about the school's response and any potential warning signs that were missed.

The details

According to police, in December 2025 they were notified of a "digital sexual relationship" between Rees and a juvenile female that began in November 2025 through a messaging app. Investigators found evidence that Rees sent sexual images to the minor and attempted to engage in sexual activities with her for about a month.

  • In November 2025, Rees allegedly began a "digital sexual relationship" with a juvenile female through a messaging app.
  • In December 2025, police were notified of the alleged relationship.
  • On April 6, 2026, Rees was arrested and charged with two counts of internet sexual exploitation of a child and one count of promotion of obscenity to a minor.

The players

Benjamin Rees

A 29-year-old former employee at Blevins Middle School in Fort Collins, Colorado who has been charged with two counts of internet sexual exploitation of a child and one count of promotion of obscenity to a minor.

Blevins Middle School

The school in Fort Collins, Colorado where Rees was previously employed as a campus monitor, head softball coach, assistant wrestling coach, assistant football coach and summer school instructional paraprofessional.

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What they’re saying

“Investigators believe additional victims or witnesses may exist.”

— Laura Knudsen, Fort Collins Police Services criminalist

What’s next

Rees is currently in custody and the investigation is ongoing. Police are asking anyone with additional information to come forward.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for rigorous background checks and ongoing monitoring of school employees who interact with minors, in order to protect vulnerable students from potential predators.