WICHITA, Kan. (AP) -- A Kansas military school embroiled in a lawsuit alleging abuse of cadets is denying it destroyed photos and videos on students' cellphones related to the case.

Families of former cadets who have sued St. John's Military School in Salina have asked a federal judge to issue an order protecting any remaining photos and videos.

The plaintiffs also want a computer forensics expert appointed as a "special master" at the school's expense to attempt to recreate material they say was deleted from student cellphones.

In its response Thursday, St. John's called the request a fishing expedition and an attempt to "sling mud" at the school. It says it has a longstanding policy barring students from taking pictures or videos on cellphones, but has recently modified the policy.