Former Telluride Preschool Teacher Charged with Child Sex Crimes

Baker faces multiple counts of exploitation, transportation, and possession of child pornography.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:35pm

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A 39-year-old former preschool teacher in Telluride, Colorado has been indicted on several federal charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors and possession of child pornography. Brandon Scott Baker is accused of using minors to produce sexually explicit content, transporting minors across state lines for sexual activity, and receiving, transporting, and possessing child abuse material.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat of child sexual predators infiltrating positions of trust within local communities. It raises concerns about the need for rigorous background checks and monitoring of those working with vulnerable youth populations.

The details

According to court documents, the Telluride Marshal's Department began investigating Baker in 2024 after receiving a tip about an Adobe Systems account linked to him that had uploaded an image flagged as child sexual abuse material. A search warrant executed at Baker's home and workplace, a local preschool, led to the discovery of evidence supporting the federal charges. If convicted on all counts, Baker could face a minimum of 15 years in prison and a possible maximum sentence of life.

  • The Telluride Marshal's Department has been investigating Baker since 2024.
  • Baker was indicted in the U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa on April 1, 2026.

The players

Brandon Scott Baker

A 39-year-old former preschool teacher in Telluride, Colorado who has been charged with multiple federal crimes related to the sexual exploitation of minors and possession of child pornography.

Telluride Marshal's Department

The local law enforcement agency in Telluride, Colorado that has been cooperating with federal authorities in the investigation of Baker.

U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

The federal court where Baker was indicted on the charges.

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What they’re saying

“The Telluride Marshal's Department has been and continues to cooperate with the Department of Homeland Security and other law enforcement agencies in an active, multi-jurisdictional investigation. Because this matter is under investigation, the Town (of Telluride) will not provide additional details at this time.”

— Telluride Marshal's Department

What’s next

Baker is being held without bond as the investigation continues. The judge will determine if he should be granted bail at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical importance of thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring for those entrusted with the care of children, as well as the need for vigilance in the community to report any suspicious activity involving minors.