Temple, GA - A middle school teacher in Carroll County has been arrested following allegations that he engaged in inappropriate conduct with a student, according to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.
Teacher Arrested Amid Report of Sexual Misconduct
Rico Thompson, 54, a teacher at Villa Rica Middle School, was taken into custody after investigators say a student came forward on December 4 to report an alleged incident on the school’s campus. Deputies say the school resource officer immediately contacted the Sheriff’s Office, leading to a swift investigation and the issuance of an arrest warrant for Thompson.
Multiple Charges Filed, Including Grooming and Child Molestation
Thompson now faces several serious charges, including child molestation, enticing a child for indecent purposes, grooming of a minor, sexual exploitation of children, and sexual assault by a person with supervisory or disciplinary authority.
Parent Reactions and Ongoing Concerns
One parent, who asked to remain anonymous, expressed deep concern over the allegations. “He was my other daughter’s teacher when she was in middle school. Honestly, it makes me sick,” the parent said. She added that her younger daughter, currently in Thompson’s class, noticed what she described as grooming behaviors before the arrest.
“She said he was hugging her and calling her pet names like ‘mama’ and ‘babes.’ She felt uncomfortable,” the parent shared. “So when she heard he got arrested, it didn’t surprise her.”
District Response to Sexual Misconduct
Villa Rica Middle School Principal Todd Cowart thanked law enforcement for their quick action in a statement released this week. “We appreciate the quick response and ongoing coordination with the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office,” Cowart wrote. “We have a wonderful relationship and open communication with local law enforcement agencies to ensure that our schools are a safe place for students and employees. In this case, we thank them again for their prompt action.”
The school district has not released details about Thompson’s current employment status.
Investigation Continues
The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing. Anyone who may have information or believes they may be a victim is urged to contact Investigator Michael Rae at 770-830-5916.
If you or someone you know needs to report abuse, you can also reach the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office at the same number.
Legal Recourse for Students After Teacher Abuse
When a teacher faces allegations of sexual misconduct, families are left grappling with fear, anger, and confusion about what steps to take next. Experienced Georgia sexual abuse lawyer John Bey discusses the legal actions available to students harmed by school employees and what accountability may look like for both the offender and the institution involved.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a teacher is accused of something this serious, what steps should families consider taking right away?
John Bey, Esq.: The first step is always safety—making sure the student is protected and supported. After that, families should contact law enforcement and then speak with an attorney who handles sexual abuse cases. Civil action can help hold both the offender and, in some cases, the school district accountable if negligence played a role.
Banville: Are schools ever legally responsible for what happens between a teacher and a student?
Bey: Yes, under certain circumstances. If the school ignored warning signs, failed to act on prior complaints, or didn’t properly vet or supervise the teacher, they could be held liable. Georgia law gives survivors a path to seek damages for the emotional and psychological harm they’ve suffered.
Free Legal Consultation for Victims and Families
If you or your child has experienced sexual abuse by a teacher or school employee, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our legal team stands ready to review your case confidentially and explain your options for holding those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a free, private consultation and take the first step toward justice and healing.
