News Summary
A Texas City math teacher and powerlifting coach has been arrested for allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activity with someone he believed to be a 15-year-old girl. The arrest followed an investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, revealing explicit online communications and plans for an in-person meeting. The district has placed the teacher on administrative leave as legal proceedings are set to unfold, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations against educators and the importance of protecting minors.
Texas City: Math Teacher and Powerlifting Coach Arrested for Alleged Solicitation of Undercover Detective Posing as Minor
Texas City law enforcement authorities apprehended John Derrick Taylor, a 55-year-old math teacher and powerlifting coach at Texas City High School, on July 15, 2025. Taylor faces serious allegations involving online solicitation of a minor, after he engaged in explicit communications with an individual he believed to be a 15-year-old girl, who was actually an undercover detective.
Details of the Incident
The Harris County Precinct One Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit conducted the investigation that led to Taylor’s arrest. According to authorities, Taylor was actively involved in online conversations with what he thought was a minor, exchanging sexually explicit messages and photographs. Investigators allege that Taylor arranged to meet the individual at a hotel with the intent of engaging in sexual activity.
The arrest occurred shortly after Taylor had been working with students at the school’s field house, highlighting how this incident uncovered a significant breach of trust and safety. The authorities confirm that Taylor’s communications included explicit content and he planned an in-person meeting for a sexual encounter.
Employment Background and District Response
Texas City ISD confirmed that Taylor has been employed by the district since 2018. His role in the district includes teaching mathematics and coaching powerlifting. The district also revealed that Taylor has worked in other school districts within the Houston metropolitan area and in Fort Stockton, West Texas, indicating a lengthy employment history in education and coaching.
Following the arrest, Texas City ISD immediately placed Taylor on administrative leave. The district made clear that he is prohibited from returning to any school campus or school-related activities. The district officials stated they are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they review the situation and plan to present the case to the Board of Trustees in August for a potential termination of Taylor’s employment contract.
Legal Charges and Statements
Taylor faces charges of online solicitation of a minor, categorized as a second-degree felony. Such charges carry a potential punishment of up to 10 years in prison. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to pursue additional information related to Taylor’s contact with minors.
Chief Constable Alan Rosen expressed that it is “especially unfortunate” for an educator to be involved in such alleged criminal acts. He emphasized the diligence of law enforcement in pursuing online predators and protecting minors from exploitation.
Public Advisory and Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement officials have urged the public to come forward with any relevant information, encouraging citizens to contact the Harris County Precinct One Internet Crimes Against Children Unit. The ongoing investigation aims to determine whether Taylor engaged in harmful contact with other minors or individuals.
Authorities remind the community that technological advances and law enforcement efforts continue to make online environments safer by identifying and apprehending individuals involved in illegal activities against minors.
Summary
In Texas City, a veteran teacher and coach has been arrested on charges related to attempting to engage in a sexual encounter with what he believed was a 15-year-old girl. The suspect engaged in explicit online exchanges and arranged an in-person meeting. The district has responded swiftly by placing Taylor on leave and cooperating with law enforcement. Legal proceedings are pending, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with pertinent information to assist ongoing investigations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC13 News
- Wikipedia: Online Solicitation of Children
- Click2Houston
- Google Search: Online Solicitation of Minors
- Hoodline
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Exploitation
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
