In a troubling incident, a Colorado teacher has been arrested for alleged child sexual exploitation. Patricio Alejandro Illanes, 39, was apprehended by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office on January 5, 2026. His arrest followed an investigation initiated in September 2025, led by detectives from the Boulder County Digital Forensics Lab, who are part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation began after three CyberTips were received from Meta, Inc., regarding Illanes’ account. It was reported that he created and sold sexually explicit content. Following this, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Illanes’ personal cell phone. This search revealed multiple videos involving apparent minors engaged in sexually explicit activities.
Key Findings
- Illanes allegedly photographed and filmed juveniles performing scripted actions mimicking a hypnotic state.
- The content was edited for his sexual gratification and shared on various encrypted messaging applications.
- Investigators identified four out-of-state individuals who confirmed participation in hypnotic role-play sessions, where they were instructed to remove clothing and perform explicit acts.
- Additional photographs were discovered depicting clothed students in school settings.
Charges Filed Against Illanes
Illanes faces serious charges, including:
- 10 counts of Sexual exploitation of a child (creating material) – Class 3 Felony
- 10 counts of Sexual exploitation of a child (publishing/selling/distributing) – Class 3 Felony
- 10 counts of Sexual exploitation of a child (possession with intent to distribute) – Class 3 Felony
- 10 counts of Sexual exploitation of a child (producing a performance) – Class 3 Felony
- 10 counts of Unlawful practice of occupation – Class 2 Misdemeanor
Illanes’ Background
At the time of his arrest, Illanes worked as an English teacher at Arvada Senior High School. The school administration was promptly informed of the investigation and placed him on administrative leave. Subsequently, he was dismissed from his position. All of Illanes’ previous employers are cooperating with investigations.
Past Affiliations
Illanes had access to numerous students through various roles, including:
- City of Longmont Children and Youth Services (2010-2015)
- TGTHR (2013-2025)
- New Meridian Alternative High School (2013-2017)
- Longmont Library – Children and Teens Section (2015-2021)
- Centaurus High School (2017-2019)
- Mapleton School District – Intern (2019-2020)
- Erie Middle School (2019-2023)
- Erie High School (2019-2023)
- Arvada Senior High School (2024-2025)
Call for Information
Authorities are encouraging any current or former students and faculty members with additional information to come forward. Victims or their guardians are urged to contact the local police department relevant to the suspected victimization. Here are the contacts:
- Arvada Police Department: 303-980-7300
- Boulder County Sheriff’s Office: Detective Sophie Berman at 720-564-2678
- Boulder Police Tip Line: 303-441-1974
- Erie Police Department: 303-441-4444 (press 2)
- Lafayette Police: Detective Anna Curran at 303-604-3504
- Longmont Public Safety: Sergeant Todd Chambers at 303-651-8521
This investigation reflects the critical efforts of local law enforcement agencies specializing in protecting children from online exploitation. The Boulder County Digital Forensics Lab is involved in examining and addressing child sexual exploitation cases across the region. As investigations continue, law enforcement remains alert to prevent further victimization.
