International Desk || A Bangladeshi-origin academic has been arrested in the US state of Florida over allegations of filming, distributing or possessing images or videos depicting sexual activity with an animal.The accused, identified as Raiyan Abdul Baten, is a former student of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and an assistant professor at the University of South Florida.According to arrest records released by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Baten was arrested on October 28, 2026. He faces a charge listed as Film, Distribute, or Possess Image or Video of Sexual Activity with an Animal.The charge relates to the alleged recording, distribution or possession of images or videos involving sexual activity with an animal. News of his arrest has circulated widely on social media, drawing attention among expatriate Bangladeshis, particularly because of his academic background and professional position at a US university.Meanwhile, claims have emerged on social media alleging that the case involves sexual activity with a goat. However, the arrest records published by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office do not identify any specific animal. The claim involving a goat could not be independently verified based on the available records.Information published on the University of South Florida's website outlines Baten's academic background and professional career.According to the university, he completed his undergraduate studies at BUET before obtaining an advanced degree from the University of Rochester. He subsequently joined the University of South Florida as an assistant professor.The allegations remain allegations, and the arrest itself does not establish guilt.