Attorney General James Uthmeier Announces 135-Year Prison Sentence for Predator in Child Sexual Abuse Material, Animal Sex Conduct Case

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that David Robert McKeown of Volusia County was sentenced to 135 years in the Florida Department of Corrections for possession of child pornography and sexual conduct with an animal.

“The abuse and trauma this predator inflicted is sick, and he deserves every moment of this sentence,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “We will always seek the longest sentence possible for anyone who harms innocent children or defenseless animals. Thanks to Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Emily Frazier and the Holly Hill Police Department, this criminal has been brought to justice and will not be allowed to harm another child or animal again.”

Holly Hill Police Department launched the investigation following a cyber tip from online social platform Discord. The investigation revealed that McKeown was a teacher at UBIC Academy and utilized school Wi-Fi to send and receive child sexual abuse materials during school hours. Additionally, investigators discovered videos of McKeown sexually abusing the family pet. McKeown was subsequently arrested.

McKeown was charged with one count of aggravated possession of child pornography, 18 counts of possession of child pornography, and six counts of sexual conduct with an animal by the Office of Statewide Prosecution.

During sentencing, Circuit Judge A. Christian Miller designated McKeown as a sexual offender and ensured he will not be allowed to own any animals once his 135-year prison sentence is complete.

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