Former Bellevue East Vocal Music Instructor David Groth Faces Federal Prosecution on Child Pornography Charges

Former vocal music instructor David Groth, 37, faces federal charges for child pornography following his resignation from Bellevue East High School.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 9:28 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from WOWT

Federal Authorities Initiate Arrest of Local Educator

The Bellevue community is responding to the news that 37-year-old David Groth, a former vocal music instructor, has been apprehended on serious federal charges. Federal law enforcement officials took Groth into custody this week following an investigation into the handling of prohibited digital materials. According to court documents, the case has moved into the federal court system, reflecting the gravity of the allegations and the specific nature of the digital evidence recovered during the preliminary stages of the inquiry.

Disturbing Details Emerge in Federal Court Filings

The formal charges against Groth include two counts related to the distribution and possession of child pornography. Investigative filings indicate that the materials in question involve images of two specific children, one of whom is described as prepubescent and the other as being under the age of 12. According to federal prosecutors, these details highlight the vulnerability of the victims involved and the highly illegal nature of the content allegedly managed by the former teacher during his tenure.

Immediate Separation From the Bellevue East District

In the wake of the federal arrest, Bellevue East school district officials have moved to sever all ties with the vocal music teacher. The district confirmed on Friday that Groth submitted a formal letter of resignation today, effectively ending his employment with the educational institution. According to school administrators, the safety and well-being of the student body remain the highest priority, and the district is cooperating fully with the ongoing federal investigation into the matter.