News Summary
Zaid Mashhour Haddad, an associate professor at UTSA, was arrested on federal charges related to child pornography. The case has shocked the university community. Investigators found him viewing child sexual abuse material and involved in the distribution of such content through messaging apps. As the situation unfolds, the university has placed him on paid administrative leave and launched an internal investigation, with serious potential consequences if found guilty.
UTSA Professor Arrested on Disturbing Federal Charges
In a shocking turn of events in San Antonio, Zaid Mashhour Haddad, an associate professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), has been taken into custody on serious federal charges related to child pornography. The arrest, which happened on April 30, 2025, sent ripples through the university community, leaving many in disbelief.
Details of the Case
Haddad, who has been a part of the UTSA faculty since 2014, faces accusations of *possession of child pornography* and *knowingly accessing material that contained images of child pornography*, as outlined by the Department of Justice. The charges are linked to a lengthy investigation that has reportedly spanned nearly four years, raising eyebrows about the timeline between the initial search and Haddad’s eventual arrest.
The saga began in July 2021 when authorities executed a federal search warrant at Haddad’s apartment. During that operation, investigators claim to have found him viewing child sexual abuse material. The subsequent investigation delved deeper into Haddad’s online activities, revealing that he allegedly received videos through the popular messaging app, Telegram. These videos reportedly included links to at least *181 different pieces of child abuse material*, some of which were live-streamed in virtual Zoom meetings, creating a disturbing picture of his actions.
What Happens Next?
Following his arrest, Haddad was placed on *paid administrative leave* by UTSA, leaving many faculty and students wondering what the future holds. The university has initiated its own internal investigation, although it is noteworthy that they clarified that no university resources were connected to the activities he is accused of. UTSA has committed to fully cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation, ensuring that the matter is handled with the seriousness it deserves.
The university community is undoubtedly grappling with the implications of this incident. Haddad’s role as an educator was held in high regard, leaving many shocked at the allegations now surrounding him. Before his time at UTSA, he was a faculty member and doctoral student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, but it seems the moral and legal failings displayed here have overshadowed his academic credentials.
Potential Consequences
If found guilty of the charges, Haddad faces severe repercussions including a possible sentence of up to *20 years in prison*, mandatory *lifetime supervised release*, financial penalties of up to *$250,000*, and the need to register as a *sex offender*. These measures reflect the gravity of the situation and the pact society has against such egregious behavior.
Community Reaction
The air is thick with disbelief and concern within the university and broader San Antonio community. Many students and faculty are left wondering how someone in such a respected position could be involved in such heinous actions. Conversations about safety, trust, and accountability are now at the forefront, emphasizing the need for vigilance and support for those who may have been affected in any way.
As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly on UTSA and the legal proceedings against Haddad. The campus community is on alert, watching closely for updates and responses as this unsettling story continues to develop.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shocking Arrest of UTSA Professor on Child Porn Charges
University Shaken by Shocking Arrest of Professor
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Federal Investigation Targets University of North Texas and Rice University
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Additional Resources
- News 4 San Antonio
- Wikipedia: Child pornography
- San Antonio Current
- Google Search: UTSA Professor Zaid Haddad
- KSAT
- Google Scholar: Zaid Mashhour Haddad
- Fox San Antonio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child abuse
- KENS 5
- Google News: Zaid Haddad
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
