South Laurel High School teacher, woman charged in child sexual exploitation case
LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. – A Laurel County teacher and a woman have been charged after authorities say the woman shared explicit images of herself and a child.
According to a uniform citation, 22-year-old Rachel Baker of Bimble, Kentucky admitted during a recorded interview on Monday with Barbourville police that she had “taken nude photographs of herself” and a child “dating back to the child being 1 years old.”
The citation states Baker said she had sent them to 35-year-old Bradley Kyle Yeager of Heidrick, Kentucky for payment. Authorities say Baker further stated Yeager had requested the photos for “sexual gratification.”
Both Baker and Yeager were arrested on Sunday, according to separate citations.
The Barbourville Police Department says its officers, along with Laurel County Schools Police, conducted an investigation into Yeager, resulting in a search at Yeager’s home.
In a social media post, Laurel County Public Schools released the following statement:
“On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the Laurel County Public Schools Police Department was notified by the Barbourville City Police Department of a criminal investigation into South Laurel High School teacher Bradley K. Yeager. The Laurel County Public Schools Police Department immediately responded to assist. Mr. Yeager is currently suspended from employment pending the outcome of the investigation.”
“Laurel County Schools considers the safety and well-being of our students and the trust of our parents to be the top priority. We strive to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for all students, where our teachers and staff serve as positive role models. All allegations of misconduct are addressed immediately and in the best interests of our students.”
Both individuals remain incarcerated at the Knox County Detention Center.
Baker is charged with possession of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under 12 and distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under 12.
Yeager is charged with possession of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under 12 and procure or promote use of a minor by electronic means.
The investigation is ongoing.
