LARUE CO., Ky. (WHAS11) -- Hodgenville Police confirm they have launched a criminal investigation involving more than a dozen LaRue County High School students.
At least five juveniles and one adult will be charged in the case. All defendants are students at the high school.
Police said an 18-year-old female sent an inappropriate picture of herself to at least five juveniles, who then sent the picture to other students.
The student who took the photograph of herself and sent it out, as well as the students who received and forwarded the picture, will be charged with distribution of obscene matter to a minor.
Hodgenville Police Chief Marcus Jackson said he spent all day Thursday at the high school, interviewing students believed to be involved. He confiscated at least four phones, as part of the investigation.
There could be additional students involved in the case.
The charges are expected to be filed sometime this week.
The following is a statement from LaRue County Schools:
"LaRue County High School administrators were told last week by a female student that she had sent an inappropriate photo of herself to other students, and the photo was circulating further than she intended.
In accordance with school policy, administrators contacted Hodgenville Police Department.
“All schools are concerned about sexting and how it affects the safety and wellbeing of students,” said superintendent Sam Sanders. “It is imperative students and parents understand the consequences.”
To increase awareness among middle school and high school students, LaRue County Schools recently hosted a Kentucky State Police presentation about the dangers of sexting. School officials have been planning a similar session for parents and will share details as soon as they are available."