Former private school teacher is charged after allegedly creating AI-generated child exploitation material

By ELIZA MCPHEE, ASSISTANT EDITOR, AUSTRALIA Published: 11:46, 24 July 2026 | Updated: 11:46, 24 July 2026 A former teacher at a prestigious private school in Queensland has been charged after allegedly using AI to generate child exploitation material. Dr Robert John Thomas, 73, who taught senior chemistry at A.B. Paterson College on the Gold Coast, is accused of using his school laptop and AI software to 'generate explicit images depicting staff and students'. Queensland Police have charged the veteran educator with making and possessing child exploitation material, and misuse of a restricted computer. Detectives had been investigating since October 30 after explicit images allegedly appeared on a classroom screen, Nine News reported. It's understood up to 50 alleged victims may be involved. The college's principal, Joanne Sheehy, said Thomas had been fired last year, and the school is providing support to students and staff. Ms Sheehy said there was no evidence the material had been shared.  The 73-year-old is due to face court on August 6.  Dr Robert John Thomas, 73, who taught at A.B. Paterson College on the Gold Coast , is accused of using his school laptop and AI software to 'generate explicit images depicting staff and students' Sorry we are not currently accepting comments on this article.