UPDATE: Investigation of Atascadero Fine Arts Academy teacher Chris Berdoll
Author: District Attorney's Office
Date: 9/14/2018 2:21 PM
The City of Atascadero Police Department has referred the investigation of Chris L. Berdoll to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office for review and potential filing of criminal charges. Berdoll is being investigated for conduct that occurred while employed as a teacher with the Atascadero Fine Arts Academy.
On Thursday, September 13, 2018, the investigation of Atascadero Fine Arts teacher Chris L. Berdoll was referred to the District Attorney’s Office by the Atascadero Police Department. Berdoll is being investigated for possession of matter depicting a minor engaging in sexual conduct (Penal Code section 311.11(c)), sexual exploitation of a child (Penal Code section 311.3(a)), and using a minor for commercial sex acts (Penal Code section 311.4(b)). The case continues to be investigated by the Atascadero Police Department with the assistance of the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation.
Given the volume and sensitivity of the investigation, it will take some time to review the matter for filing. A filing decision will be made in advance of the September 24th court date.
On Monday, September 10, 2018 Berdoll was arrested by the Atascadero Police Department. Investigators were successful in attaining an enhanced bail amount of $500,000. Berdoll posted bail and is out of custody.
The public has expressed concern about the issuance of Criminal Protective Orders. Criminal Protective Orders cannot be obtained until Berdoll’s September 24th arraignment. At that time the District Attorney’s Office will seek such orders where legally appropriate.
“The District Attorney’s Office is keeping the lines of communication open between investigating law enforcement agencies and the school district, to ensure effective communication, and will continue to update the public on the status of the investigation,” said District Attorney Dan Dow.
Berdoll is scheduled for Arraignment on September 24, 2018 at 8:30 am in Department 3 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court.
For media inquiries, please call Assistant District Attorney Eric J. Dobroth at 805.781.5800.
