News Summary
A 29-year-old teacher from St. Johns County, Christopher Ford, has been arrested following allegations of inappropriate behavior at St. Augustine Beach. Witnesses reported that he engaged in misconduct in the presence of minors, prompting a police investigation. Ford, who is on paid leave from Bartram Trail High School, faces potential charges as the case develops amidst concerns over staff conduct at the school.
St. Augustine Beach, Florida — Teacher Arrested for Alleged Inappropriate Behavior Near Minors
A teacher from St. Johns County has been taken into custody amid ongoing concerns about inappropriate conduct at St. Augustine Beach. Christopher Ford, age 29, a teacher at Bartram Trail High School, was arrested Saturday following multiple reports of suspicious behavior involving minors.
Details of the Arrest and Allegations
Law enforcement officials from the St. Augustine Beach Police Department responded to a 911 call reporting observed misconduct by Ford near the beach. Witnesses alleged that Ford was engaging in inappropriate acts, specifically masturbating in public or in view of minors. The report indicated that he was near a group of children aged between 10 and 12, some of whom were foreign exchange students.
According to reports, Ford approached several young girls and positioned himself close enough that waves pushed one of the children into him. Witness accounts describe Ford as lingering near the children, with some observing that his behavior seemed intended to draw the minors closer. Additional reports included Ford “lingering” near the group and placing himself in positions to appear as if he was intentionally trying to attract attention.
Investigation and Witness Testimony
Law enforcement authorities interviewed multiple witnesses, including a chaperone from North Carolina who was supervising the exchange students and a parent who saw suspicious behavior involving her children. These witnesses provided detailed descriptions of Ford’s actions, including an assertion that he maintained inappropriate physical proximity and made movements consistent with inappropriate touching. However, Ford reportedly denied the allegations, claiming that he had not placed his hands in his shorts and that no inappropriate conduct occurred.
School and Community Response
Following the arrest, St. Johns County Schools placed Ford on paid leave pending further investigation. The school district’s superintendent announced plans to recommend Ford’s termination at the upcoming school board meeting scheduled for September 9th. This action reflects ongoing concerns about safety and accountability within the local school system.
Background of Past Incidents at the School
Ford’s arrest marks the third incident involving staff from Bartram Trail High School in recent years. In previous years, the school experienced other disciplinary issues, including the arrest of another teacher, Lucas Worsham, last month for online solicitation of prostitution. Additionally, in 2022, a former coach at the school, Tylar Reagan, was arrested and later convicted of sexually assaulting students, highlighting ongoing challenges related to staff conduct at the school.
Legal Status and Next Steps
Ford faces potential criminal charges related to his conduct at the beach. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing additional witnesses’ statements and evidence. The school district is also taking measures to address safety concerns and ensure appropriate disciplinary action.
St. Johns County officials and law enforcement emphasize the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding children’s welfare. The case continues to develop as authorities determine the full scope of the incident and any related criminal activity.
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Additional Resources
- Action News Jax: St. Johns County Teacher Arrested
- SJ Citizen: Bartram Trail High School Teacher Accused
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- Google Search: Teacher Arrested Lewd Behavior
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