A high school teacher in Louisiana was arrested after he allegedly showed nude photos of himself to a student.
The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into the matter on August 25 after they received reports of alleged inappropriate communication that took place between teacher Demetric A. Preston and an underage student, according to WDAM.
Authorities said the student told school officials that Preston, 28, showed the images during the first week of school.
Detectives seized Preston’s cell phone and gathered statements amid the investigation. Authorities were then able to determine that there was sufficient evidence to arrest him.
He was later booked into the Caddo Correctional Center and was charged with indecent behavior with juveniles.
It’s not currently clear if Preston has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding the case.
Preston was placed on administrative leave and was removed from the classroom when the investigation first began. The investigation into the allegations against him remains ongoing. It’s not currently clear if police believe Preston shared inappropriate photos with any other underage students.
Following his arrest, the Caddo Parish Public Schools district issued a statement about the situation.
“We understand that incidents like these are deeply concerning for our families and community. Caddo Schools takes our responsibility seriously to provide a safe environment for every student, and any allegation of inappropriate conduct requires immediate attention,” the statement began.
The school district went on to say that “every employee must complete a rigorous criminal background check and meet all applicable state employment and compliance requirements before being hired.”
“Our safeguards do not stop there. We maintain clear standards of employee conduct, reporting requirements, and procedures to respond quickly when concerns are raised,” the statement continued. “When allegations surface, we act, cooperate fully with law enforcement, and take appropriate personnel action.”
The school district said that the allegations made against Preston “do not reflect the expectations we have for the thousands of dedicated professionals serving Caddo students each day.”
“We will continue reviewing our practices, strengthening safeguards where needed, and doing everything within our authority to protect the students entrusted to our care,” the district concluded.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
