Middle School Teacher Accused Of Sending Student Sexual Messages

TEMPLE TERRACE, FL — A middle school teacher has been arrested after being accused of having inappropriate communications with a male student.

James Michaud, 28, turned himself in at the Orient Road Jail Tuesday.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office began an investigation on Sept. 12 after the parents of the student filed a complaint against the Greco Middle School AVID teacher.

According to the sheriff's office, Michaud sent inappropriate and explicit sexual messages to the student through social media on several occasions. Detectives said there is evidence that Michaud sent explicit messages to other minors as well. They are trying to determine if they are also Greco Middle School students.

"It's sickening to know an adult entrusted to educate and mentor our children abused his position to prey on this young and innocent victim," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Unfortunately, we believe he may have done the same to other minors and urge them to please come forward. This man will not get away with this deplorable behavior and his victims should not suffer in silence."

Michaud was charged with authority figure soliciting or engaging in lewd conduct with a student, transmission of harmful materials to a minor and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.

Anyone who may be a victim or has information about this case is urged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200.