Art Teacher Had Sexual Relationship With Tampa Student: Sheriff

TAMPA, FL — An art teacher was arrested for having an “inappropriate and sexual relationship” with a high school student, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Brian Singleton, 46, is accused of performing sexual acts against the student at Gaither High School between September and December last year.

A warrant was issued for his arrest on May 9 and he turned himself into Orient Road Jail later that day.

Singleton was charged with two counts of sexual battery (familial or custodial authority) and one count of soliciting a sex act with a child (familial or custodial authority), the sheriff’s office said.

He was hired by Hillsborough County Public Schools as a full-time art teacher at Gaither High School in February 2017. He was placed on administrative leave in December and resigned from his position in March.

"I am disturbed by the actions of this man, who was trusted to be responsible for the well-being of students, but instead, he decided to betray that trust, taking advantage of a student under the guise of authority," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "As a parent, I understand the concerns of those learning about this situation. Rest assured that our detectives will tirelessly stand against those who exploit and harm others in our community."

Anyone with information about this case or if someone believes they may have been a victim of Singleton, they should call HCSO at 813-247-8200.