Former Classmates Shocked by AI-Generated CSAM Involving Cascade Victims

Investigations continue into Dalten Johnson's reported child sexual abuse case, impacting multiple victims from his alma mater.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A multi-state investigation into artificial intelligence-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM) continues to have an impact on victims with Cascade ties, as former classmates reveal shock, uncertainty, and communal ramifications. Dalten Bryne Montana Johnson, a former classmate, has been arrested and admitted to owning the account where the CSAM was discovered, as well as having a pornography addiction since 2020 and previously saving sexually explicit images of minors. The case has gone beyond individual harm to affect the entire Cascade community, with victims stating the event demonstrates how new technology may affect communities of all sizes and locations.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing issue of AI-generated child sexual abuse material and its impact on small communities. It raises concerns about the use of new technologies for exploitation, the need for stronger laws to address these crimes, and the lasting trauma experienced by victims and their communities.

The details

According to court documents, upon his arrest, Johnson was advised of his Miranda rights and admitted to owning the account where the CSAM was discovered. He also admitted to having a pornography addiction since 2020 and previously saving sexually explicit images of minors. Investigators also found that Johnson possessed approximately 450 images of female children between the ages of 6 and 17 wearing swimsuits, leotards, and other tight, form-fitting, or revealing clothing. The Defendant's wife has operated an in-home daycare at their residence for nearly 10 years.

  • Johnson was detained on counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
  • The case is still in its early stages, with several states participating and further developments expected.

The players

Dalten Bryne Montana Johnson

A former classmate of the victims who has been arrested and admitted to owning the account where the CSAM was discovered, as well as having a pornography addiction since 2020 and previously saving sexually explicit images of minors.

LaKie Gardner

A former classmate of Johnson's who was shocked to learn that photographs from her youth had been perverted using generative AI.

Rachel Burk

A former Cascade resident and classmate of Johnson's who described him as quiet but social, kind, and with zero signs of the alleged behavior.

Austin Knudsen

The Montana Attorney General who referenced House Bill 82, which criminalizes grooming and allows prosecutors to pursue cases involving pedophiles who use artificial intelligence to digitally alter photos of minors.

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What they’re saying

“It was so weird. I could not go to sleep. After that. I got up, and I got in my car, and I just drove in circles around my little town because I just didn't know what else to do with myself.”

— LaKie Gardner (kxlh.com)

“He was kind of quiet, but he was social. He was part of our groups, our clubs. When he did speak, he was hilarious. He was always kind. There was zero sign.”

— Rachel Burk, Former Cascade Resident (kxlh.com)

“Beyond, I think our individual lives, it's just it upsets the whole community because it's not just 1 or 2 of us. It's an entire class system over multiple years. So, it's my whole, it's everybody I knew in high school.”

— Rachel Burk, Former Cascade Resident (kxlh.com)

“This is some crazy thing that could happen to you. If it happens in a small place, like Cascade, and if it happens in a place like Utah, that's everywhere. That's everyone.”

— LaKie Gardner (kxlh.com)

What’s next

Investigators say Johnson was detained on counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, and the case is still in its early stages, with several states participating and further developments expected.

The takeaway

This case highlights the devastating impact of AI-generated child sexual abuse material on small communities, demonstrating the need for stronger laws and increased awareness to protect vulnerable individuals from these emerging technological threats. It underscores the importance of proactive measures to address the growing issue of online exploitation and the lasting trauma it can inflict on victims and their communities.