Diplomat Middle School teacher accused of sending explicit photo to student
A Diplomat Middle School teacher has been arrested after he allegedly sent pictures of his genitalia to a student.
Joseph Michael Reynolds, 30, of Cape Coral, was charged with transmission of material harmful to a minor.
Officers from the Cape Coral Police Department contacted Reynolds on Friday after they gained information that he had sent the images, a release from the CCPD issued today states.
“The Cape Coral Police Department’s Special Victim’s Unit was informed by a School Resource Officer of the possible inappropriate relationship between Mr. Reynolds and one of his students,” the release states. “This investigation revealed that Mr. Reynolds provided the student with his phone number to correspond through text, eventually leading to him sending the photo.”
According to the Diplomat Middle School website, Reynolds teaches social studies. He was hired by the district on Oct. 25, 2016.
Parents received notice from the School District of Lee County as is required by state statute:
“Good Morning Wildcats-
“You are receiving this important message in compliance with Florida Statute 1012.797, Parental Notification of Arrest of Employees. I must inform you that Mr. Joseph Reynolds, Teacher at Diplomat Middle School was arrested on 04/07/2023 for the following:
“Transmission of Material Harmful to Minors to a Minor by Electronic Device or Equipment
“Please know that The School District of Lee County and law enforcement will handle this matter most appropriately.
Thank you.”
Reynolds was transported to Lee County Jail where he remained in custody as of early Monday afternoon. Bond has been set at $25,000.
He has been suspended from his duties with the district, which is conducting an administrative investigation as well.
“We do not tolerate this kind of alleged behavior and the teacher involved is suspended with pay pending the outcome of our investigation,” district officials said via email in response to a request for comment on the teacher’s status.
Source: Cape Coral Police Department