Para-educator at Ellis Middle School in Austin facing two felony child pornography charges in Mower County District Court

An Austin man who had been serving as a para-educator at Ellis Middle School in Austin is facing two felony child pornography charges in Mower County District Court. 

31-year old Vincent Askelson was taken into custody by the Adams Police Department last Wednesday, and he was charged Friday with felonies for dissemination of porographic work involving minors, and for possession of pornographic work involving minors.  Askelson was released on his own recognizance late Monday morning after being held since last Wednesday on $50,000 bond with conditions, and $250,000 bond without conditions.  A pretrial hearing for Askelson in Mower County District Court has been scheduled for March 31st, 2023, and a jury trial has been scheduled for April 10th.  

In a letter to staff, families and caregivers, Superintendent Dr. Joey Page stated that Austin Public Schools is aware of pending criminal charges regarding Vincent Askelson, a para-educator at Ellis Middle School.  Dr. Page went on to state that the District is fully cooperating with law enforcement officials as they conduct their investigation and will continue to do so. There is no information that any Austin Public Schools students were involved; however, Dr. Page stated that if you have any information that could be related to the case, you are asked to please contact the Austin Police Department at 507-437-9400.  Dr. Page stated that Askelson is on leave from his position.