Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
Matthew Dawson Watson, a 27-year-old former Social Studies teacher at Bradford Middle School, located at 527 N Orange St, Starke, FL 32091, has been arrested on allegations of engaging in online sexual activity with a student. Watson surrendered to authorities on Monday after a warrant for his arrest was issued last Friday by the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office.
According to News4Jax, investigators believe Watson intentionally engaged in inappropriate online behavior with a student between December 1, 2024, and February 12, 2025. The victim, officials confirmed, was under the age of 16 at the time of the incidents.
The allegations came to light on February 12 when a report was made to a school employee. Following this, Watson was immediately placed on administrative leave and the matter was referred to law enforcement.
On May 19, Watson resigned from the Bradford County School District, where he had been employed since August 2022. District officials report no prior complaints or investigations in his personnel file.
In a statement, Deputy Superintendent Karen Clarke assured the community that the district acted swiftly upon learning of the allegations. Clarke reaffirmed the district’s commitment to student safety and cooperation with law enforcement, saying, "The safety and well-being of our students and staff remains our top priority."
A parent who spoke with News4JAX revealed that an investigator contacted her regarding inappropriate behavior involving Watson and other students. While her daughter is not the victim in this case, the mother stated that Watson allegedly targeted her child through social media.
“The victim’s mom reached out to me and told me what she saw about my daughter in the victim’s phone,” the woman shared. “He was talking to students through social media and was asking inappropriate questions about my daughter.”
Watson is now facing charges of transmission of live sexual conduct over a computer and offenses against students by authority figures. He is currently being held at the Bradford County Jail, with bond set at $500,000.
When cases of sexual misconduct by teacher come to public attention, many families are left wondering what steps they can take to protect their children and hold perpetrators accountable. Michael Haggard, an experienced Florida lawyer specializing in sexual abuse cases, discusses the legal paths available for victims and the responsibilities of schools in ensuring student safety.
Editor Darla Medina: When cases like this arise, what legal options are available for victims and their families?
Attorney Michael Haggard: Victims and their families have several legal avenues. They can pursue criminal charges through law enforcement, which holds the abuser accountable under the law. In addition, they may have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator or, in some cases, the institution, if there’s evidence of negligence in preventing the abuse.
Medina: What role does the school district play in these cases?
Haggard: If the school district failed to act on warning signs, improperly vetted the teacher, or didn’t follow protocols to protect students, they could be held liable in a civil suit. Schools have a legal and moral obligation to ensure their students’ safety.
Medina: How can families begin to navigate such a complex and emotional situation?
Haggard: The first step is to contact law enforcement and cooperate fully with the investigation. Simultaneously, families should consider consulting an attorney who specializes in cases involving sexual abuse to understand their rights and options. Therapy and counseling for the victim and their loved ones are also critical during this process.
Medina: Thank you, Michael. Your insights are invaluable as our community processes this difficult situation.
Haggard: Thank you, Darla. It's important that victims and their families know they’re not alone and that resources are available to support them.
Victims of teacher misconduct and their families deserve answers, support, and justice. If you or a loved one has been affected, don’t face this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation to understand your rights and explore the legal options available. Your voice matters, and we are here to help you take the next step.
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