A former teacher from Elgin Independent School District has been arrested and charged with an improper relationship between an educator and a student, a second-degree felony under Texas law.
Teacher's Arrest and Bond Details
According to Travis County court records, 34-year-old Turran Cortez Fennix of Elgin was taken into custody on November 16 and released the following day on a $15,000 bond. Jail records list a mugshot of Fennix in the Travis County Jail system.
As of Sunday, no attorney information for Fennix had been filed with the court. Updates will be released once representation is confirmed and a statement is issued.
Sex Crime Allegations Described in Court Documents
An arrest warrant affidavit states that on September 5, a juvenile reported inappropriate conduct by Fennix to law enforcement. The teen said they were both a student and a member of Fennix’s dance team, which practiced in a school gym but was not officially affiliated with Elgin ISD.
According to the documents, the student told investigators that members of the dance team stayed overnight at Fennix’s home with parental permission during December 2024 and spring 2025. The juvenile alleged that during both visits, Fennix acted inappropriately.
Fennix’s Response to Investigators
Records show that Fennix denied sexually touching any students but confirmed allowing them to sleep at his home and share his bed. He reportedly learned of the accusations in February 2025 after a parent informed him of the student’s initial outcry.
The affidavit states that despite being aware of the allegation, Fennix did not report it to school officials or the student’s parent. He also continued to coach the same student in dance and hosted another sleepover afterward. At the time of both alleged incidents, Fennix was employed as a teacher at the same public school the student attended.
Elgin ISD Statement Following Report of Teacher Student Abuse
Elgin ISD confirmed it was informed of the arrest regarding allegations of misconduct involving a former employee. The district noted that it immediately supported the investigation and complied with all required reporting obligations.
Fennix resigned from his teaching position on September 5, 2025.
“The District is committed to working closely with local law enforcement agencies,” the district’s statement read. “Accusations such as these are concerning, and if proven to be true, unacceptable. Elgin ISD will continue to fully cooperate with the Elgin Police Department during the investigation.”
District officials also emphasized that providing a safe learning environment remains their highest priority and that any inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated.
Texas Attorney Explains Legal Options for Students Abused by Teachers
When allegations of sexual abuse involve a teacher or school employee, victims and their families often struggle to understand what legal steps to take next. To clarify how Texas law addresses these serious cases, we spoke with experienced sexual abuse lawyer Anjali Nigam about the rights of students, potential civil actions, and the responsibilities of schools when misconduct occurs.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When allegations like these surface, what steps can families take to protect the victim’s rights and begin the legal process?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: The first and most important step is reporting the incident to law enforcement and the school district. That ensures the accused is removed from any position of authority during the investigation. From there, the victim’s family can consider filing a civil lawsuit for damages, separate from any criminal case, to hold both the individual and the institution accountable.
Banville: What makes these cases different from other forms of abuse litigation?
Nigam: When a teacher or school employee abuses their position, the issue often extends beyond the individual. Schools can be liable if they failed to report complaints, ignored warning signs, or did not follow mandatory reporting laws. Each case requires careful review of district policies and documentation.
Banville: How can legal representation help families through the process?
Nigam: A lawyer can help gather evidence, coordinate with investigators, and file appropriate legal claims. Most importantly, they provide a voice for survivors and ensure the system treats them with fairness and respect.
Standing Up for Student Safety
Victims of educator misconduct and their families do not have to face this alone. Legal support can make a significant difference in holding abusers and institutions accountable. Our legal team is here to listen, guide, and take action on your behalf. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss your options and take the first step toward healing and justice.
