Harrisonburg Preschool Teacher Zachary Harger Faces Felony Charges Following Undercover Child Pornography Investigation

Preschool teacher Zachary Harger faces felony charges after HPD and Secret Service trace child pornography purchases and find images taken at his school.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 1, 2026, 6:24 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from 29 News

Federal Intelligence Triggers Multi Agency Task Force Probe

The arrest of Zachary Harger is the result of a coordinated effort between local and federal authorities targeting digital crimes against minors. The investigation began on February 23, 2026, when the U.S. Secret Service provided information to the Harrisonburg Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations regarding a suspicious cryptocurrency account. Federal agents tracked transactions through this account that were linked to the purchase of illicit materials. By early March, digital investigators confirmed that the account belonged to Harger, a resident of Rockingham County, providing the necessary foundation for a more intensive local inquiry.

Preschool Bathroom Identified as Suspected Crime Scene

As the digital investigation progressed, Harrisonburg detectives uncovered evidence that suggested a direct breach of student safety within the suspect's workplace. Forensic examiners reviewing digital devices seized during a March 13 search of Harger’s residence discovered pornographic images of a young child. Crucially, investigators believe these images were taken inside a bathroom at the preschool where Harger was employed. This discovery shifted the case from the possession of illicit materials to the active manufacturing of child pornography and unlawful filming, prompting immediate intervention by Child Protective Services.

Cooperation with Harrisonburg City Public Schools

Throughout the investigative process, the Harrisonburg Police Department maintained direct communication with school administrators and Harrisonburg City Public Schools to manage the fallout of the allegations. School officials have reportedly been vital partners in ensuring the safety of the student body while supporting the timely execution of the search and arrest warrants. The HPD Victim Services Liaison Unit has also worked to notify the family of the specific victim identified in the recovered images, though authorities have declined to release any further details regarding the child's identity to protect their privacy.