TAMPA, Fla. — A teacher at a Tampa charter school was arrested after he allegedly touched a student inappropriately and sent them lewd texts, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office said.
Johnathan Sheppard, 38, was arrested Monday for actions he reportedly committed during the 2023-2024 school year at Henderson Hammock Charter School in Tampa.
Few details were provided about Sheppard's specific actions, but the sheriff's office said he faces charges including two counts of an authority figure soliciting or engaging in a romantic relationship with a student and lewd or lascivious molestation of a child between 12-15 as an authority figure over a student.
"This man's despicable actions against a student, all while holding the trusted position of a teacher, are abhorrent," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. "It's infuriating to know someone responsible for the education and well-being of students would prey upon our most vulnerable, our children."
Sheppard wasn't the only person arrested during the investigation.
The sheriff's office said investigators learned 48-year-old Theresa Cruz, a Hillsborough County Public School Security Officer assigned to the charter school, had interfered with the school's initial investigation into the allegations.
Cruz reportedly obstructed the investigation by giving Sheppard details about the school's case.
Because of this, Cruz was arrested and charged with two counts of tampering with a witness and obstruction.
"This individual was entrusted with the safety and security of the students, and she betrayed that trust," Chronister said in a statement. "Her willingness to help this criminal means she will now face the serious consequences of her actions."
The sheriff's office is asking anyone who believes they were victimized by Sheppard to contact Hillsborough County Sheriff's 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.