Sarasota, FL - Sarasota Police have arrested 21-year-old Cobie Bradley following allegations that he engaged in inappropriate behavior with multiple students while working and volunteering at two Sarasota schools.
Investigation Began After Teen’s Allegation at Charter School
According to police, Bradley was assigned to the aftercare program at Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences and volunteered at Sarasota High School. Authorities said his roles in both schools placed him in regular contact with children.
Genevieve Judge with the Sarasota Police Department said, “The role he was in at both of these schools did give him access to these children. You think you send your child to school, and they’re with trusted adults. Unfortunately, that was not the case in these situations.”
Investigators said the case began in September after the parents of a teenage student from Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences reported a troubling allegation. An arrest affidavit describes how a 14-year-old student became withdrawn and refused to attend school. When his parents questioned him, the boy told them Bradley had touched him inappropriately during a theater lighting class.
The affidavit also states that Bradley took the student’s phone and added him on Snapchat.
Additional Students Come Forward
Police said the initial report led investigators to uncover more victims at other schools. “Once we started investigating that first victim, that led us to additional victims at other schools,” Judge said.
In mid-October, several students unrelated to the original case told their band director at Sarasota School of Arts and Sciences that Bradley made them uncomfortable because he had been inappropriately touching students.
A second victim from Sarasota High School contacted investigators in late October and reported that Bradley touched him inappropriately twice during band camp in July.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities say Bradley took advantage of his position to gain access to students. The Sarasota Police Department continues to investigate and is encouraging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Holding Schools Accountable: Legal Options for Victims Abused by a Volunteer
When allegations of sexual abuse surface within a school setting, parents are often left searching for answers and wondering what legal steps they can take. West Virginia sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard shares how victims and their families can take action when a school volunteer is accused of misconduct. Haggard explains the responsibilities schools have to protect students and the legal avenues available to those harmed under their supervision.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When cases like this happen, what steps can parents take if they believe their child was harmed by a school employee or volunteer?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Families can work with law enforcement on the criminal investigation while also exploring civil claims. Schools have a duty to protect students, and if a volunteer or employee is accused of misconduct, that liability can extend to the institution if negligence played a role—such as failure to supervise or inadequate background checks.
Banville: For those considering legal action, what does that process usually involve?
Haggard: It begins with an attorney reviewing the facts, then determining if the school or organization met safety standards. From there, a civil case can seek compensation for emotional trauma, therapy costs, or other damages. Importantly, victims have the right to be heard and to hold institutions accountable.
Protecting Your Family’s Rights
Victims of sexual abuse and their families do not have to face these painful situations alone. Legal professionals are ready to help guide you through your options and hold those responsible accountable. If you or someone you love has been affected by abuse involving a school employee or volunteer, contact our team today for a free and confidential consultation.
Source
https://www.fox13news.com/news/teacher-arrested-touching-students-spd
