One of the two Keene residents charged in connection with the alleged production of child sexual abuse material was a bus driver for the transportation company that serves the ConVal School District.

According to a statement from U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young’s office, Paul Baird, 43, of Keene and Krystal Baird, 38, of Keene were charged by complaint for the production of child pornography. They appeared in federal court Wednesday.

At the time of his arrest, Paul Baird was employed as a bus driver by the Student Transportation of America, which serves the ConVal district. STA spokesperson Jen Holzapfel stated that “all drivers undergo a complete and extensive background check, and this individual did not have any prior history of concern. However, a commitment to safety is a condition of every driver’s employment with our company. This driver, who began employment with STA on Sept. 15, 2023, has been terminated, effective immediately. We will continue to prioritize the safety of the students we transport. STA is fully cooperating with authorities and the district on the ongoing investigation.”

ConVal Superintendent Kimberly Rizzo Saunders stated that the district learned of the arrest Wednesday, and noted that Baird was not a ConVal employee.

"We are making every attempt to obtain further information,” she stated. “The district intends to swiftly and fully cooperate with the U.S. Attorney's Office throughout its investigation. The safety and security of our students is our utmost concern. We will be reviewing our transportation safety protocols beginning immediately. Additionally, the district will begin an immediate review with STA of their policies and practices, to ensure that our students are afforded the highest level of protection and that STA employees reflect the shared values of our district. We are committed to updating the community as further information can be made public.”

Young’s office states that according to the charging documents, as early as November 2023, Paul Baird was allegedly observed on a dark web chat site dedicated to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of girls from 4 to 14 years old. On March 7, Paul Baird allegedly posted links to three CSAM images to the website. A search of Paul Baird and his residence in Keene on Wednesday led to the arrests of Paul and Krystal Baird for the production of child sexual abuse material.

Homeland Security Investigations is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Keene Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Krasinski is prosecuting the case. This investigation is ongoing. Members of the public who have information regarding this case should call Homeland Security Investigations’ New England Field Division Manchester office at 603-629-2716.