TAMPA, Fla. — A former art teacher at Gaither High School in Tampa has been arrested after he was accused of sexually battering a student, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said.
According to deputies, 46-year-old Brian Singleton was a full-time art teacher with Gaither High School and the Hillsborough County Public Schools system since 2017.
Singleton reportedly committed these crimes between September and December 2023. The juvenile was reportedly victimized by him while at the school.
He was placed on administrative leave in December 2023. According to the sheriff's office, he then resigned from his position at the school in March 2024. In a statement, a Hillsborough County Schools spokesperson said he was removed from the classroom as soon as allegations were received.
"We are disheartened by the allegations against this individual," the spokesperson said. "The safety and wellbeing of our students is always our top priority."
It's unclear when the sheriff's office began its investigation into Singleton.
Deputies said Singleton turned himself in on May 9 not long after a warrant for his arrest was issued.
He is charged with two counts of sexual battery by a familiar or custodial authority and one count of soliciting a sex act with a child by a familial or custodial authority.
"I am disturbed by the actions of this man, who was trusted to be responsible for the well-being of students, but instead, he decided to betray that trust, taking advantage of a student under the guise of authority," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. "As a parent, I understand the concerns of those learning about this situation.
"Rest assured that our detectives will tirelessly stand against those who exploit and harm others in our community."
The sheriff's office is asking anyone who has information about this case or believes they may have been a victim of Singleton to contact deputies at 813-247-8200.
Anyone experiencing violence issues is urged to reach out for help. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay can connect people to resources and information during traumatizing events or in situations when general advice is needed. Call 211 to reach the center.