Child Porn Found in Home of Dead Teacher

GREENWICH, Conn. – Sexually explicit photographs of children were found in the home of the Eastern Middle School orchestra teacher who was found dead in his home Nov. 9 of an apparent suicide, police reported Wednesday.

The body of Steven Allen, 57, was found in his apartment at 84 Valley Road in Cos Cob on the morning of Nov. 9 after coworkers called police when he did not show up to work. He appeared to have a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and a weapon recovered at the scene was registered to Allen, police said. At the time, police said, “failing health conditions may have caused the deceased to become despondent.”

However, during the course of investigation, police found numerous photographs in a storage bin that appeared to have been printed from a computer. Because many of the sexually explicit photos appeared to be child pornography, police have called in the FBI for technical assistance. Police Chief James Heavey said the investigation may take several weeks to complete.

“At the present time there is no indication that any of the individuals portrayed in the photographs have any local connection or that Mr. Allen produced any of the photographs himself,” Heavey said in a statement released late Wednesday afternoon. “The majority of the discovered photographs appear to be from websites that cater to this type of criminal activity, many of which are located in foreign countries.

Greenwich Police plan to determine Allen’s level of involvement in the pornographic activity, identify and assist victims and confirm that none are local residents.

Allen was a music educator for 33 years, the last 11 with Greenwich public schools. During his tenure, the program grew, with over 70 percent of the school’s students participating. Allen was known for teaching students music they often wouldn't learn until high school. 

Interim Superintendent Roger Lulow released this statement: “We are both surprised and distressed at this news. We are surprised because there had been no indication or suspicion that Mr. Allen was involved in any activity of this nature, nor have there been any complaints or accusations regarding his behavior. We are distressed because we do not condone or tolerate this behavior in anyone, much less a member of our staff.”

Lulow said a review of Allen’s personnel file and background check prior to his hire revealed “no reports, accusations, or suspicions of inappropriate behavior nor any criminal record.” He said the district was relieved that there was no evidence that local individuals were victims of inappropriate or illegal acts on Allen’s part.  

The district, in particular Eastern Middle School and Greenwich High School, will provide support and guidance for staff, students and families.

Anyone with concerns or information should contact Lt. Kraig Gray, spokesman for the Greenwich Police Department, at 203-622-3620. No further information is being released at this time.

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