A Johnson County investigation ended with the arrest of a former Venus Independent School District employee yesterday, after detectives served a search warrant at a home in Venus and said they found material depicting child sexual abuse. Authorities identified the suspect as Andrew Daniel Centeno, who was taken into custody at the scene and transported to the Johnson County Jail. Investigators set his bond at $150,000 while the case moves forward.
Search warrant, reported confession and booking
Detectives executed the warrant as part of an investigation into suspected possession of child pornography. Centeno admitted to possessing the material, according to KRLD. The outlet reports that he was booked into the Johnson County Jail following his arrest. The sheriff’s office has urged anyone who may have information about Centeno’s contact with children to speak with investigators.
Work and ministry ties
Investigators told reporters that Centeno worked for Venus ISD in multiple roles from 2020 through the end of 2024 and that he also had connections to children’s ministries at several area churches, according to MyTexasDaily. At the time of those reports, the district had not publicly commented on the arrest.
What the charge means under Texas law
Possession or promotion of child pornography is a crime under Texas Penal Code § 43.26. Penalties can depend on factors such as how many images are involved, the nature of the material, the age of the child depicted and whether the accused held a position of trust or authority over children. A conviction can lead to prison time, fines and lifetime sex-offender registration.
How to help investigators
Johnson County detectives are asking anyone with information about Centeno’s interactions with children to contact investigators or submit anonymous tips through Johnson County Crime Stoppers, as outlined in the sheriff’s release posted by the Johnson County Sheriff's Office. The release lists Detective Richards as the point of contact at [email protected] or 817-556-6058, Ext. 3521.
Local coverage has reminded the public that Centeno is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty in court. Authorities say the investigation is still active and have not said whether additional charges may be filed, according to KRLD.
