Richardson police have arrested a Richardson ISD high school teacher who is accused of soliciting a minor online.
An investigation into 41-year-old Michael Ralph Fouse started after police received a tip on Aug. 20 from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Richardson police said in a news release.
The Berkner High School teacher was placed on administrative leave after his arrest at his home Friday, according to a statement from the district and Richardson police.
The district said in a statement that the well-being of its students is the highest priority.
“Any conduct that could compromise student safety is unacceptable, and the district takes allegations of this nature extremely seriously,” the district said in the statement.
Detectives are working with Richardson ISD to collect any additional information as the investigation continues, police said.
Fouse faces a charge of online solicitation of a minor, which is a third-degree felony.
The crime involves using the internet or messaging to obtain or share sexually explicit content with a child or to ask a child to meet for sexual contact, according to the Texas Penal Code. If convicted, Fouse could face 2 to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000.