BUSTED: Texas Middle School Coach Arrested, Charged With Child Grooming

A Texas middle school coach has been arrested and charged with having an inappropriate relationship with a middle school student in north Texas.

According to a report from WFAA, a middle school coach with Mesquite Independent School District was arrested on Wednesday after allegations came to light that he was engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a middle school student.

Sergio Gonzalez, who is now the former coach at A.C. New Middle School in the Mesquite Independent School District, was named and arrested by the Balch Springs Police Department.

Gonzalez, according to WFAA, now faces a charge of child grooming. In Texas, a charge of child grooming is a third-degree felony.

What Is The Child Grooming Law In Texas?

This is a new law passed in 2023 by the Texas Legislature. The law classifies child grooming as a third-degree felony which carries a potential penalty of up to ten years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.

According to McConathyLaw.com, child grooming according to Texas law means the intentional establishment of a connection with a child with the "intent of subjecting them to sexual abuse or human trafficking.

Under the law, it is now considered a state crime for an individual to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, coerce, or attempt to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce a person under the age of 18 to engage in sexual conduct or activity, or to be a participant in such conduct. This legislative action reflects an effort to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child protection and prevent individuals from grooming children for sexual exploitation or trafficking purposes.

Gonzalez Was Arrested at His Home

Balch Springs Police had been informed by Mesquite ISD about a possible inappropriate relationship between the coach and the student. Police began an investigation that also included the Forney Police Department and Texas DPS. Gonzalez was arrested at his home on Wednesday. After being placed on leave, Gonzalez resigned from the school district.

According to WFAA, Gonzalez is being held in the Balch Springs Jail until he can be transferred to the Dallas County Jail. Gonzalez was hired by Mesquite Independent School District in 2004 and was both a coach and teacher at the school.

CBS reports that Gonzalez has been reported to the State Board for Educator Certification.