Show-Me State Times

An elementary school teacher from Independence, Missouri, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on additional child pornography charges. Dennis Adlai Hernandez, 28, faces a seven-count indictment in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Missouri. He was previously charged with transportation of child pornography, production and attempted production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. The new indictment adds four more counts related to the production and attempted production of child pornography. The alleged offenses occurred between August 2022 and August 2025.

The indictment states that these are accusations and not evidence of guilt. A federal trial jury will determine guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeking to identify any potential victims connected to this case. Individuals who believe they or their children may have been affected are encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI. Minors should have a parent or guardian make the call on their behalf. Responses are voluntary, and those who respond may be contacted for further information.

The FBI is required by law to identify victims in federal crimes it investigates. Victims may qualify for certain services, restitution, and rights under both federal and state laws.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alison Dunning is prosecuting the case following an investigation by the FBI.

This prosecution falls under Project Safe Childhood, an initiative started by the Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at addressing child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide through collaboration among federal, state, and local agencies to prosecute offenders and support victims. More information about Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.usdoj.gov/psc . Resources on internet safety education are also available at this site under the "resources" tab.