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A teacher in Broward County is facing grave accusations after police uncovered his involvement in sharing child sexual abuse material online, according to Local 10. Craig Rogers, 60, a physical education teacher at Westchester Elementary School located at 12405 Royal Palm Blvd, Coral Springs, FL 33065, was taken into custody on Tuesday following an investigation that began in May.
The Coral Springs Police Department launched its inquiry after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children. The tip alleged that Rogers had been sharing illicit material through the Kik social media platform. Investigators confirmed his identity as the account holder and linked the images to his office and equipment room within the school.
Authorities revealed that chat logs provided by Kik showed Rogers referring to himself as a “pervert teacher” while sharing explicit materials. Some of the videos, according to the arrest report, depicted children as young as six. Rogers also allegedly shared images of clothed students during physical education classes, alongside explicit photos of himself taken on school property.
Police apprehended Rogers at the Studio 6 Motel on North University Drive, where he had been staying. A search warrant executed at the property led to the seizure of multiple devices. This marks Rogers’ second arrest this year; in April, he was accused of stalking a family in his neighborhood for over a year and a half, which led to his reassignment away from the school.
Broward County Public Schools expressed deep concern over the allegations. In a statement, the district confirmed Rogers had been reassigned in April due to his earlier arrest. They assured the public of their full cooperation with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
Rogers is currently being held at the Broward Sheriff’s Office Main Jail without bond. Authorities emphasized that their investigation remains active and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact Coral Springs Detective Nicole Hildebrandt at nhildebrandt@coralsprings.gov.
When allegations of child exploitation occur in schools, the aftermath can leave victims and their families searching for clarity and support. Florida attorney Jen Lipinski, who specializes in sexual abuse cases, answers pressing questions about the legal steps victims can take, the responsibilities of schools, and how families can navigate these challenging circumstances.
Editor Darla Medina: Given the allegations in this case, what legal actions are available for victims of abuse by a teacher in Florida?
Attorney Jen Lipinski: Victims of sexual abuse by educators have several paths they can take. They can pursue civil lawsuits against the perpetrator for damages, including emotional distress, therapy costs, and other impacts on their lives. In cases involving schools, there may also be grounds to hold the institution accountable if negligence or failure to protect students is proven.
Medina: How does the law address the school’s potential responsibility in situations like this?
Lipinski: Florida law requires schools to provide a safe environment for students. If it’s shown that the school was aware of warning signs, failed to act on prior incidents, or didn’t conduct thorough background checks, they could face liability. Cases like this often hinge on whether proper safeguards were in place and followed.
Medina: What should families affected by such incidents do if they’re unsure how to proceed?
Lipinski: The first step is contacting law enforcement and cooperating fully with their investigation. Simultaneously, families should consult an attorney experienced in abuse cases to understand their rights and options. These situations are overwhelming, so having someone guide them through the legal process is vital.
If you or a loved one has experienced sexual abuse by a teacher, know that you don’t have to face this alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance, support, and legal representation to help you hold the responsible parties accountable. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation, and let us help you fight for the justice and peace of mind you deserve.
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