A former Carbondale Community High School teacher’s aide will remain in federal custody while facing charges involving the alleged sexual exploitation of an underage girl.
32-year-old Austin Knoob of Carbondale faces two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. Knoob, who previously owned Levels nightclub, pleaded not guilty last week in federal court in Benton. A judge denied his request for pretrial release Monday.
According to an FBI affidavit, Knoob allegedly developed an online relationship with a girl who told investigators she was 12 when they first met. Authorities allege Knoob sent her money and gifts while encouraging her to produce sexually explicit videos.
The investigation originated with the FBI in Boston before being referred to agents in Marion earlier this month. Federal prosecutors said the investigation is continuing and additional potential victims could be identified.
Carbondale Community High School Superintendent Daniel Booth said Knoob was hired as an aide in August 2025 and resigned effective April 10.
The FBI is asking anyone with information related to Knoob or the investigation to contact the agency at 1-800-CALL-FBI.