Former Tampa art teacher accused of sexually battering student
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A former art teacher at Gaither High School was arrested for having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday.
The sheriff’s office arrested 46-year-old Brian Singleton on charges of sexual battery and soliciting sex acts with a child after police said he “took advantage of a student under the guise of authority.”
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Singleton was hired by Hillsborough County Public Schools as a full-time art teacher at Gaither High School in February 2017. The alleged battery took place between September and December 2023, according to the sheriff’s office.
Singleton was placed on administrative leave in December 2023 and resigned from his job in March 2024.
An arrest warrant was issued for Singleton Thursday, and he turned himself in later that day, the sheriff’s office said.
“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 the case or anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Singleton is asked to call the sheriff’s office at 813-247-8200.
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