Crime & Safety

Teacher Accused Of Filming Girls In San Clemente, Anaheim

The 45-year-old teacher was charged with attempting to film cheerleaders at dance competitions at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Philip Joseph Dodd is also accused of doing the same in San Clemente on Sept. 3, according to court records.
Philip Joseph Dodd is also accused of doing the same in San Clemente on Sept. 3, according to court records. (Shutterstock)

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — A 45-year-old teacher has been charged with possessing child pornography and attempting to film cheerleaders at dance competitions at the Anaheim Convention Center, according to records obtained Wednesday.

Philip Joseph Dodd, who listed his occupation as teacher, posted bail and was released from jail on Wednesday. He did not enter a plea at his Tuesday arraignment in the jail courtroom in Santa Ana, and the hearing was rescheduled for April 6 in the North Justice Center in Fullerton.

Dodd was charged Tuesday with using an underage person for obscene matter, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of destroying a memory card, which was evidence, according to court records.

Find out what's happening in San Clementewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Dodd was arrested about 10 a.m. Saturday at the convention center where he was allegedly attempting to film young girls at the Varsity Spirit 2023 All Stars Champions and USA Dance Nationals, according to Anaheim Police Department Sgt. Jon McClintock.

Dodd is also accused of doing the same in San Clemente on Sept. 3, according to court records.

Find out what's happening in San Clementewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

McClintock asked anyone with information relevant to investigators about Dodd to call police at 714-765-1900. Orange County Crime Stoppers will accept anonymous tips at 855-TIP-OCCS.

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