Former Teacher Molested Student At Tampa School: Hillsborough Sheriff

TAMPA, FL — A former teacher at Henderson Hammock Charter School in Tampa was arrested Monday on charges related to inappropriate conduct against a student, according to a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office news release.

Johnathan Sheppard, 38, was charged with two counts of being an authority figure soliciting or engaging in a romantic relationship with a student, and lewd or lascivious molestation of a victim 12 to 15 by a defendant over 18.

Sheppard is accused of inappropriately touching a student and sending them inappropriate text messages during the 2023-24 school year, the sheriff’s office said.

He was suspended on April 11 following an investigation and his employment was terminated by the school on April 19.

"This man's despicable actions against a student, all while holding the trusted position of a teacher, are abhorrent," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "It's infuriating to know someone responsible for the education and well-being of students would prey upon our most vulnerable, our children."

During their investigation, detectives learned that the Hillsborough County Public Schools security officer assigned to the school had interfered with the school’s initial investigation.

Theresa Cruz, 48, is accused of providing Sheppard with details about the investigation, the sheriff’s office said.

Cruz was arrested and charged with two counts of tampering with a witness and obstruction (resisting without violence).

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Sheppard is asked to contact detectives at 813-247-8200.