A former teacher at a Centennial private school was sentenced to 60 years in prison Friday for sexually assaulting multiple children in his care.

Christopher Ballard, 28, of Lakewood, had been charged with nearly 24 sexual offenses against 12 child victims at the Journey Academy, where he had been employed since 2021, according to a Friday news release from the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Ballard pled guilty to two counts of first-degree assault with a sexual basis.

During the investigation, officials learned that he had inappropriately touched students and exposed them to pornography, according to the release.

“This defendant is a monster who abused his position of trust to victimize children,” said 23rd Judicial District Chief Deputy District Attorney Danielle Jaramillo in the release. “While no sentence can undo the trauma these children endured, the outcome brings a measure of justice and ensures he will never be able to hurt another child.”

The investigation into Ballard began in March 2024, when parents contacted the Parker Police Department after learning that their child was one of the man’s victims, according to the release. Officials at the school also contacted authorities when they learned of Ballard’s conduct.

A school spokesperson said that the academy had done a full background check on Ballard before he was hired as well as sexual awareness and prevention training during his onboarding, according to the release.

“There is absolutely no place in society for people who prey on children,” said 23rd Judicial District Senior Deputy District Attorney Abby Hegarty in the release.