MISSISSIPPI — An assistant baseball coach with the Forest Municipal School District has been arrested on multiple charges involving alleged inappropriate conduct with a minor student, according to police.
Forest police said the investigation began after reports of sexual misconduct, grooming, and exploitation were brought to their attention. Investigators said digital evidence and reports from school officials helped uncover the allegations.
The suspect, identified as Austin Taylor, faces numerous charges including sexual battery, fondling or gratification, contributing to the delinquency or neglect of a minor, position of authority enhancement, grooming, enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes, adultery and fornication between teacher and pupil, computer luring of persons under 18 for sexual purposes, and molesting or touching a child for lustful purposes. Police said the incidents occurred on multiple occasions.
“This is a very disturbing case that underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting our children in our schools,” Forest Police Chief Steven Bell said. “We are and continue to work closely with the district attorney’s office to ensure that the prosecution is thorough.”
Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the Forest Police Department at (601) 469-4141.
