Two Lewis and Clark County Residents Charged in Child Pornography Case
Two Helena residents were charged with felony sexual abuse of children after court documents allege they possessed and distributed images of young children, some under age ten including toddlers. The case raises concerns for local families and childcare providers about safety, oversight, and the need for trauma informed support in the community.
Helena law enforcement announced on November 18, 2025 that two local residents, Selena Janine Huth and Brian Thomas Mangold, have been charged with felony sexual abuse of children in connection with alleged possession and distribution of child pornography. According to court documents, the two communicated from September 2024 through April 2025. The filings allege Mangold sent pictures to Huth, and Huth sent pictures to another individual, with some images described as depicting children under age ten including toddlers.
Both defendants were arrested and held on bond. Mangold’s bond was set at one hundred twenty five thousand dollars and Huth’s bond was set at one hundred thousand dollars. The criminal case remains active and court proceedings are expected to move forward in Lewis and Clark County District Court.
Huth has worked in local childcare settings, including Pete’s Place which serves St. Peter’s employees, and previously worked for Nature Story Montessori and Drop a Tot Childcare. Helena Police informed MTN that investigators do not believe the images in question were of children Huth had access to through her employment. No allegations have been made publicly that any of the named childcare programs were the source of the material. Investigators and prosecutors will determine whether additional victims or criminal conduct emerge as the inquiry proceeds.
The charges have immediate implications for local families, childcare providers, and public agencies. Allegations of sexual exploitation of children can erode trust in early childhood settings and create fear among parents who rely on childcare while they work. Health and social service providers say community response must include prompt law enforcement action, clear communication, and accessible mental health supports for any potential victims and for families coping with the trauma that such cases can cause.
Public health implications extend beyond criminal prosecution. Children affected by sexual abuse or exposure to sexual images face risks to mental health, development, and safety that require coordinated responses from child protective services, pediatric health providers, and schools. Advocates note the importance of trauma informed care, timely screening for harm, and resources that are equitable and available to families across income levels.
The case also highlights systemic questions about screening, oversight, and workplace protections in childcare settings. As the legal process continues, community leaders and policymakers in Lewis and Clark County may face pressure to review hiring practices, background checks, and reporting protocols to better protect children while safeguarding the rights of workers. Local residents seeking information or concerned about potential harm should contact Helena law enforcement or child protective services for guidance and support.
