A Mesquite Independent School District teacher has been arrested and charged for an alleged improper relationship with a student.
According to police, 32-year-old Cesar Antonio Jimenez was a teacher in the Vroonland Vanguard High School’s automotive program.
Administrators allegedly witnessed the inappropriate behavior by Jimenez toward a student and contacted Mesquite Police. On April 5, Mesquite Police learned of the potentially inappropriate relationship.
According to the district, Jimenez resigned from his position after learning about the concerns Mesquite ISD had and the Mesquite PD’s investigation.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Marshals Service North Texas Fugitive Task Force arrested and charged Jimenez with one count of felony improper relationship between an educator and student.
“Mr. Jimenez’ actions are appalling and disturbing and will not be tolerated in Mesquite ISD,” district officials said in a statement per CBS News. “As educators, our priority is, first and foremost, the safety and well-being of our students. In partnership with Mesquite police, we acted swiftly to address this matter as quickly as possible, and we appreciate their immediate response and ongoing support. Our focus will now turn toward healing as the staff and students of Vroonland Vanguard High School move forward from this experience.”
Mesquite ISD also sent a letter to Vanguard High School families informing them of the situation.
“We know this news may be very upsetting for you, as it is for the entire Vanguard family. Of course, you likely have many questions. Privacy laws limit what we can share with you, but this email includes the facts we can disclose,” reads the letter. “It is important to understand that MISD is not an investigating agency in situations involving possible criminal behavior. MISD was unable to inform you about this situation before tonight due to the ongoing police investigation. As required by law, MISD will report the educator to the State Board for Educator Certification.”
State records show that Jimenez’s teaching certificate is still valid and is currently not under investigation by the Texas Education Agency.
Texas Scorecard has exposed dozens of educators charged with sex crimes, with more being charged almost daily.
