MEDINA, Ohio — An English teacher at Highland High School, who was arrested Thursday for allegedly engaging in what authorities call "inappropriate sexual conduct" with a 17-year-old student, made his first court appearance on Friday.
The teacher, identified as Kyle Brooks, 55, of Akron, is charged with sexual battery, a third-degree felony. The Medina County Sheriff's Office released body camera footage of his arrest outside of the high school.
On Friday, Brooks was arraigned on the sexual battery charge and was given a $200,000 bond. To be released from Medina County Jail, Brooks has to post 10% or $20,000.
If he is released, he is ordered to have no contact with the student and has to wear a GPS monitoring device.
When a magistrate indicated the teacher may not be eligible for a court-appointed attorney, Brooks responded, "Given the nature of the charges, I think it's safe to say I'm unemployed."
According to Captain Kevin Ross of the Medina County Sheriff's Office, an investigation was started after the student's father found inappropriate emails between his daughter and Brooks. After speaking with the alleged victim, police arrested Brooks on Thursday after students were let out.
Investigators said the sexual battery charge relates to someone in a position of authority violating another person.
"Due to the fact that he's a teacher, it's illegal for that interaction to occur," Ross said.
Investigators believe the two had sexual intercourse at the teacher's house last week, Ross told News 5.
Ross called the situation a disturbing case of grooming that apparently started last school year. The alleged victim was in the teacher's class last year. Detectives are looking at the possibility of more charges.
"We're still looking at— as far as maybe possible charges— with some touching, contact, sexual contact with the minor at some couple various parks," Ross said.
According to the sheriff's department, Brooks is married and has children.
“The Medina Country Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Highland Local School District Administration and the Medina County Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance in bringing a swift resolve to this egregious allegation,” Sheriff Terry Grice said.
“We are shocked and saddened by this information. We have and will continue to fully cooperate with the Medina County Sheriff’s Office investigation. It remains our top priority to provide a safe learning environment for all students and have made plans for additional counselors to be available at the high school for students or families who may need support," Highland Local School District Superintendent Catherine Aukerman said.
During his court appearance, Brooks said he has been with the district for 28 years. District officials confirmed the length of the teacher's employment and said he has been suspended from all duties and responsibilities.
