Teacher With 'Unblemished Teaching Record' Accused Of Having Sexual Relations With Student, Arrested

A female English teacher at a private school in Tampa, Florida, is facing criminal charges for allegedly having sex with a student.

Jamie Melton, 42, is accused of having "engaged in sexual relations" with the student from Carrollwood Day School earlier this month. She was arrested Sunday and charged with sexual battery, officials said, according to the New York Post.

The identity and the exact age of the student, who is reportedly over 12 and under 18 years old, have not been released.

It is believed Melton's actions were part of a one-time incident. However, investigations are underway to find out whether she behaved inappropriately with other students, 10 Tampa Bay reported.

"This woman was a trusted member of this community who was responsible for the education and well-being of students, instead she violated that trust," Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement, as per the outlet.

"As a parent, I am disgusted and hope she faces the full consequences of her actions," he added.

Sara Rubinstein, the principal of the well-known K-12 school, released a statement following Melton's arrest.

"On Sunday, in communication with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and police authorities, CDS administration was made aware of the arrest of 10th and 11th grade Language Arts teacher, Jaime Melton," Rubinstein said. "As of right now, we have been informed that Ms. Melton has been charged with Sexual Battery, Child Over 12 but Less than 18, by a Person in Familial or Custodial Authority."

Rubinstein said the school did not face any issues concerning Melton's conduct in the past.

"Ms. Melton has had an unblemished teaching record and we have not had any concerns about her conduct prior," the principal noted. "Ms. Melton has been suspended from her position immediately."

The principal emphasized that student safety is the school's priority and said all of its faculty members and staff undergo mandatory training in safeguarding children, as well as understanding their responsibilities in informing the concerned authorities about such incidents.

Counseling support was also offered to students and families in light of the incident.

"We recognize the stress and anxiety this will cause many in our community," Rubinstein said. "Our counselors are always available for students and families, and my door is always open."