3 days ago
Crestview High School teacher arrested for alleged sexual relationship with student in early 2000s
OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) — A longtime teacher in Okaloosa County has been arrested and charged following an investigation into an alleged sexual relationship with a student that began more than two decades ago.
Timothy John Sexton, 58, a current teacher at Crestview High School and former teacher at Pryor Middle School, was taken into custody Tuesday morning at his home in Holt. The arrest was carried out by the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) and the U.S. Marshals Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force.
According to the OCSO, Sexton is accused of engaging in a sexual relationship with a female student between April 2001 and July 2005. Investigators say the relationship began when the victim was 14 years old and continued until she was 17.
Sexton faces charges of sexual battery by a person in custodial authority and sexual battery involving a victim between the ages of 12 and 18. He is currently being held at the Okaloosa County Jail without bond.
The investigation began in late March 2025 after the sheriff's office and the Okaloosa County School District received a tip through the FortifyFL app, a platform designed to report suspicious activity in Florida schools. Interviews with the victim and other witnesses ultimately led investigators to establish probable cause for Sexton's arrest.
'There is no expiration date on seeking justice for victims,' Sheriff Eric Aden said in a statement. 'This arrest underscores our unwavering commitment to pursuing the truth, no matter how much time has passed. We are proud of the work done by our investigators and encourage anyone who has been a victim to come forward.'
The Okaloosa County School District confirmed Sexton had been placed on administrative leave following the initial report and will now be recommended for suspension without pay pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings.
'Our teachers are held to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and integrity when it comes to the safety and well-being of our students,' Superintendent Marcus Chambers said in a statement. 'Despite the significant time that has passed, if the allegations against this employee are substantiated, we will respond swiftly and appropriately. This is a zero-tolerance issue.'
The school district said it had immediately notified the Florida Department of Children and Families and the sheriff's office upon receiving the FortifyFL report.
No additional details about the victim are being released due to the nature of the charges.
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