Maryland School Employee Indicted on Federal Child Exploitation Charges

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Xaviour Smith, a 28-year-old school employee and dance instructor in Maryland, has been indicted on federal charges related to the coercion and enticement of minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct. Smith, who founded the 1101 Dance Academy that serves children ages 8-18, allegedly exploited three minors between March and August 2025 to produce child sexual abuse material.

Why it matters

This case highlights the disturbing reality of child exploitation by individuals in positions of trust and authority over young people. It underscores the need for robust screening, oversight, and accountability measures to protect vulnerable children, especially in extracurricular activities.

The details

According to the indictment, Smith persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced three minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions. The specific ages of the victims have not been disclosed by authorities. Smith was charged with five counts of producing child sexual abuse material and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison on each count if convicted.

• Between March and August 2025, Smith allegedly exploited the minors.