Key Largo Teacher Arrested For Battery On Student

KEY LARGO (CBS4) - A Key Largo math teacher turned himself in to face charges of battery on a student, officials said Thursday.

Jose Zepeda, 38, of Plantation Key was released after posting a $1000 bond. He is charged with one misdemeanor count of battery.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff's Department, the 12 year old alleged victim told her parents in May that she was having trouble in class and her Zepeda would sit next to her and help. During the times he was next to her, he would allegedly place his hand on her thigh and over several weeks, would gradually move it up to her groin area. The girl said during one incident she noticed a bulge in his pants.

The girls parents called the Department of Children & Families Abuse Hotline, who then contacted the sheriff's department.

Upon questioning, authorities say Zepeda admitted to touching the girl's leg, but denied it was sexual in nature. Detectives also questioned several students in class who said they had seen Zepeda touch the girl's leg.

The Monroe County School District released a statement saying Zepeda was been reassigned to a position that has no contact with students on Friday. He was suspended without pay after his arrest.

Monroe County Superintendent Jesus Jara stated, "These situations must be handled according to the UTM contract and State Law with the best interest of our students in mind."