A 26-year-old Central Florida substitute teacher was arrested for masturbating in a classroom and exposing himself to students.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested a former substitute teacher at BridgePrep Academy of Riverview for exposing himself to students.
On May 13, 2024, two students walked in on 26-year-old Harvey Cole masturbating in a classroom during a lunch break.
The Tampa area school reported the incident to law enforcement the following day. Cole was placed on administrative leave during the investigation.
A warrant was issued for Cole on September 11th, and he was located and taken into custody.
“This man’s actions are utterly reprehensible and a complete violation of the trust placed in educators,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Teachers are entrusted with the safety and well-being of our children, and this individual has not only failed in that duty but has also engaged in behavior that is both shocking and intolerable. We will not allow anyone who preys on our youth to escape justice.”
This is an active and ongoing investigation, according to local law enforcement.
