Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A teacher and coach from Moore Middle School, located at 300 E G.A. Moore Pkwy, Celina, TX 75009, has been arrested and charged with invasive visual recording, a state jail felony. Following the arrest, the educator, identified as 26-year-old William Caleb Elliott, has been placed on indefinite administrative leave, according to CBS News.
Authorities executed a search warrant at Moore Middle School, where Caleb Elliott serves as a sixth-grade history teacher and eighth-grade football coach. Under Texas Penal Code § 21.15, invasive visual recording is a serious offense involving unauthorized recordings of individuals in private settings, such as bathrooms or dressing rooms, when done without consent and with a motive to invade privacy or for sexual gratification.
The Celina Police Department, which is leading the investigation, has stated that no additional information can be disclosed at this time.
The arrest has drawn significant attention due to Caleb Elliott’s familial ties. He is the son of Bill Elliott, a prominent figure in the district as Celina High School's athletic director and head football coach. Bill Elliott recently led the Bobcats to a historic 16-0 season, securing the 2024 Class 4A Division I state championship—the program's ninth overall.
Celina ISD addressed the incident in a letter sent to Moore Middle School parents. The district explained that it was informed of the arrest last Friday evening, but did not have details on whether any students were directly affected.
In the letter, Celina ISD emphasized its commitment to student safety. “The safety and security of our children is the top priority in Celina ISD,” the district wrote, urging parents to speak with their children about any concerns. The district has encouraged families to report any relevant information to local law enforcement or the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Caleb Elliott was booked into the Collin County Jail following his arrest. The investigation remains ongoing, with both the police department and the school district working to address the situation.
When allegations of misconduct by a teacher or coach surface, families often face confusion and uncertainty about their next steps. Anjali Nigam, a seasoned Texas attorney specializing in sexual abuse cases, explains the legal rights available to victims and their families. Nigam outlines the paths families can take to seek accountability and support for their children.
Editor Darla Medina: When cases like this arise, what legal steps can victims or their families take to address the harm caused?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims and their families have several options. The first step is often working with law enforcement to ensure the criminal case moves forward. Alongside that, families can explore civil lawsuits to seek damages for emotional trauma, therapy costs, and other impacts. Texas law also allows victims to hold institutions accountable if negligence in hiring, supervision, or reporting played a role in enabling the abuse.
Medina: What should parents do if they suspect their child may have been affected?
Nigam: Parents should have open, supportive conversations with their children, avoiding leading questions but providing a safe space for disclosure. If concerns arise, they should immediately contact law enforcement or child protective services. Consulting with an attorney experienced in abuse cases can also help families understand their rights and next steps.
Medina: Are there any specific protections in place for victims, particularly minors, during these proceedings?
Nigam: Yes, Texas law provides protections to ensure minors feel as safe as possible throughout the legal process. For example, child-friendly interviews and testimony accommodations are used to reduce retraumatization. Additionally, victims are entitled to privacy protections to keep their identities confidential.
If your child has been harmed by a teacher, coach, or trusted adult, you don’t have to face this alone. Legal support can provide the tools to hold perpetrators accountable and help your family begin to heal. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation—our team is ready to stand by your side and fight for justice.
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