TITUSVILLE, Fla. (TNND) — A Florida charter-school teacher was arrested after witnesses said he exposed himself and engaged in “lewd behavior” outside his home, according to authorities.
The Titusville Police Department on Tuesday said Justin N. Samson, 41, was charged with exposure of sexual organs.
Police said officers were sent to his home after receiving reports about a man exposing himself outside on Saturday shortly before 8:30 a.m. Witnesses shared statements and cellphone video that police said documented the incident.
WFTV reported that a witness recorded the alleged encounter and contacted police to pursue charges. The media outlet, citing an arrest affidavit, reported that officers later saw Samson open the door of his home while naked.
When officers tried to speak with him, Samson allegedly shut the door and did not come back outside despite repeated police announcements, WFTV reported.
Police identified Samson as a teacher at Burns Science & Technology Charter School in Oak Hill, adding that the school’s administration was notified after his arrest.
School officials said in an email to parents that Samson — who was also a coach at the school — had been placed on administrative leave pending a review, per WFTV. He will not be allowed to teach, coach, or participate in school activities while the review is underway, the outlet noted.
A school spokesperson told the outlet the alleged incident happened away from campus and that officials had no indication students or other children were involved.
Samson was initially booked into the Brevard County Jail with no bond listed, police said. WFTV reported that a judge later set bond at $2,000 and ordered that Samson have no contact with, or be near, anyone younger than 18.
The case remains under investigation, police said.