Providence teacher charged with sexual assault and possession of child pornography, held without bail

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – A Providence teacher accused of sexual abuse and possession of child pornography is being held without bail.

Joseph Gannon, 50, was arrested Friday and charged with first-degree sexual assault and production/distribution of child pornography.

According to the Providence District website, Gannon was an 8th grade science teacher.

The district sent a letter to families of students at the school saying Gannon had been placed on leave and a report of suspected child abuse or neglect had been filed with the Department of Children, Youth and Families.

Colonel Oscar Perez told ABC6 that one of Gannon's victims came to the police station with this accusation, which led to his arrest.

“This goes back, I mean, the victim is an adult now. As I said, she came to the police station and we immediately had her interviewed and met with investigators from the Special Victims Unit and yes, we were able to arrest the teacher,” he said.

A judge ruled that Gannon would be held without bail.

His next court date is September 30th.

The judge also ordered a restraining order.