Tampa, FL: Officials in Florida say that on Monday, a teacher at Henderson Hammock Charter School was arrested for acting inappropriately toward a student.
Police from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office say they arrested Johnathan Sheppard, 38, for touching a student inappropriately and writing inappropriate text messages during the school year of 2023–2024.
According to the officials, Sheppard is facing charges for:
- Authority figure soliciting or engaging in a romantic relationship with a student.
- Lewd or lascivious molestation (defendant over 18; victim 12-15).
It was also found that a Hillsborough County Public School’s Security Officer who was assigned to the charter school messed up the school’s first review into the claims against Sheppard.
“This man’s despicable actions against a student, all while holding the trusted position of a teacher, are abhorrent,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister in a press release. “It’s infuriating to know someone responsible for the education and well-being of students would prey upon our most vulnerable, our children.”
Officials say that Theresa Cruz, who is 48 years old, told Sheppard about the probe and she is facing the following charges:
- Tampering with a witness (1st degree felony)
- Obstruction (resist without violence)
“This individual was entrusted with the safety and security of the students, and she betrayed that trust,” said Sheriff Chronister. “Her willingness to help this criminal means she will now face the serious consequences of her actions.”
If you think you may have been a victim of Johnathan Sheppard, call the HCSO at 813-247-8200, according to detectives. Police say that the probe is still going on.
