A middle school teacher in Florida was arrested after being accused of sexual battery for a years-long incident that involved a child.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office claimed in a press release that Brian Leo Pavluchuk sexually abused the minor victim multiple times between 2014 and 2017.
Pavluchuk, 40, was arrested on Friday, July 24, and hit with felony charges including sexual battery and lewd and lascivious molestation.
He had been employed by Punta Gorda Middle School at the time of the incident and when he was arrested. Authorities said that he was known to the victim prior to the alleged abuse, though it hasn’t been confirmed whether the child was ever his student. Additionally, authorities have not shared specific details of what Pavluchuk has been accused of doing.
The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office carried out the arrest with the assistance of the Desoto County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Task Force. The agencies conducted an investigation that included several interviews, obtained witness statements and record admissions in order to establish probable cause for the arrest.
The sheriff’s office added that they believe Pavluchuk could have more victims.
Following Pavluchuk’s arrest, Charlotte County Public Schools Public Information Officer Claudette Smith issued a statement regarding the situation.
“We are deeply troubled by the arrest made today involving a Charlotte County Public Schools employee. While this matter did not occur within a school setting, we want to be clear that every CCPS employee is held to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, both on and off campus,” Smith said, per the release. “We understand the concern and disappointment this creates within our community, and we take these matters seriously.”
Smith added that Pavluchuk “has been placed on administrative leave,” and the school district is following “established procedures” while working “closely with the appropriate authorities” amid the investigation.
“We encourage anyone with information related to this matter to contact local law enforcement,” Smith concluded.
Authorities have asked that anyone with information regarding this case contact the Criminal Investigations Section of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office at 941-861-4900.
It is not currently clear whether Pavluchuk has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding the case.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
