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Breaking Legal News
A security guard at Twin Lakes Academy Middle School was accused of inappropriate conduct involving a student, prompting immediate action from school administrators and an ongoing criminal investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.
Jon Kee, who has worked at Twin Lakes Academy since February 2022, was arrested on Thursday, May 29, and charged with an authority figure soliciting or engaging in lewd conduct with a student. Kee originally joined the school as an office assistant before transitioning into a security guard role in July 2024.
Following news of his arrest, Kee was immediately removed from campus and reassigned to a position with no student contact. The full nature and circumstances surrounding the alleged conduct remain unclear. This outlet has requested his arrest report to obtain further details.
Twin Lakes Academy Middle School Principal Aurelia Williams sent a message to school families addressing the arrest directly.
"The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has informed us that a member of our school staff, Mr. Jon Kee, was arrested on Thursday, May 29, and charged with an offense involving inappropriate conduct with a student," Williams wrote. "I understand how upsetting and alarming this news may be, and as both a principal and someone who cares deeply about our students and families, I share in your concern."
Williams emphasized that both a criminal investigation led by JSO and a district-level professional standards review are currently underway, and that Kee will have no contact with students throughout that process.
Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is urged to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office directly at 904-630-0500.
Williams also addressed the emotional toll the news may have on students and families, stating that school staff are available to provide support. "If your child needs additional support or you have concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to us directly — we are here to listen and help," she said.
The factual information above was sourced from news4jax.com as of May 21st 2026.
The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.
When a student is sexually abused by a school employee, the immediate shock and confusion can leave families feeling powerless and unsure of where to turn. Beyond the criminal process — which law enforcement controls — victims and their families have legal options of their own. Florida sexual abuse attorney Michael Haggard has spent years representing victims in cases involving institutional failures and the adults entrusted to protect children. We sat down with Haggard to talk through what families should know, what rights victims hold, and how the civil justice system can serve as a path toward accountability and healing.
Editor Darla Medina: When a student is sexually abused by someone employed at their school, what legal avenues are generally available to the victim and their family?
Attorney Michael Haggard: There are typically two paths — the criminal side and the civil side. The criminal case is handled by law enforcement and the state attorney's office, and the family has no direct control over that process. But on the civil side, the victim and their family can file a lawsuit independently, and that process is entirely separate. Civil cases allow victims to hold not just the individual accountable, but potentially the institution as well.
Medina: Can a school district be held legally responsible for the actions of an employee who abuses a student?
Haggard: Absolutely. Under Florida law, school districts have a legal duty to protect students in their care. If it can be shown that the district was negligent — meaning they failed to properly screen, supervise, or take action against a staff member who posed a risk — the district itself can face significant civil liability. These institutions are responsible for who they put in contact with children.
Medina: What kind of compensation can victims pursue through a civil lawsuit?
Haggard: Civil damages in these cases can cover a wide range of harm. That includes medical and psychological treatment costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term therapy. For minors, courts also consider the lasting impact abuse can have on a child's development and future quality of life. These cases carry real weight, and juries take them seriously.
Medina: How soon should a family act if they believe their child has been abused?
Haggard: As soon as possible. Florida has statutes of limitations that govern how long a victim has to file a civil claim, though there are extended timeframes for minors in sexual abuse cases. Still, the earlier a family consults with an attorney, the better positioned they are. Evidence is preserved, memories are fresh, and the legal strategy can be built from a stronger foundation. Waiting can complicate things unnecessarily.
Medina: What is your advice to parents who suspect their child may have been victimized but aren't sure where to turn?
Haggard: First, listen to your child without judgment and take what they say seriously. Then contact law enforcement and get them connected with a professional counselor who specializes in trauma. After that, speak with an attorney who handles sexual abuse cases — many offer free consultations. Parents should never feel like they have to navigate this alone. There are people whose entire focus is helping families through exactly this kind of situation.
If your child has been victimized by a school employee, every day that passes matters. The Legal Herald is here to help connect you with an experienced sexual abuse attorney who can walk you through your rights and legal options at no cost to you. There is no obligation, no pressure — just answers from a qualified legal professional who understands what your family is going through. Reach out today and take the first step toward accountability, justice, and healing for your child.
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