Palm Beach County, FL - A science teacher at Donna Klein Jewish Academy in Boca Raton has been taken into custody following allegations that he engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student, authorities confirmed Thursday.
Teacher Faces Two Felony Charges
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as 26-year-old Elias Gordon Farley. He faces two felony counts—unlawful sexual activity with a minor and offense against a student by an authority figure.
Investigators say the relationship began with casual conversations in late spring and intensified over the summer of 2025. By September, the student reported that sexual encounters occurred both on school grounds and at Farley’s apartment.
Evidence and Timeline of Investigation
Detectives gathered evidence that includes school surveillance footage, explicit Google Docs messages, and several items seized during a search warrant at Farley’s residence.
Authorities said the case came to light when the student confided in another teacher, prompting school administrators to notify law enforcement. Farley was arrested on December 3, 2025, and remains under investigation.
School Community Responds
Donna Klein Jewish Academy officials have confirmed they are cooperating fully with law enforcement. Parents and students were notified after the arrest and assured that the safety of students remains the school’s top priority.
Legal Perspectives: Holding Predators Accountable
Amid growing concerns about educator misconduct, experienced Florida sexual abuse lawyer Jen Lipinski discusses the legal rights of students who have been sexually abused by teachers. Lipinski explained how victims can take action through both the criminal justice system and civil claims, emphasizing that holding perpetrators and institutions accountable can help protect future students from similar harm.
Banville: When a teacher faces allegations like these, what legal paths can victims and their families take?
Lipinski: Besides the criminal case, victims often have the right to file a civil lawsuit. That can hold both the perpetrator and the school accountable—especially if the school failed to act on warning signs or didn’t enforce proper safeguards.
Banville: Are there timelines victims should be aware of when considering legal action?
Lipinski: Yes, Florida has specific statutes of limitation for abuse claims, though some cases allow for extensions depending on the victim’s age or when the abuse was discovered. It’s important for victims to speak with an attorney early to preserve their rights.
Legal Support for Survivors
Victims of educator misconduct and their families deserve trusted guidance and a chance to hold abusers accountable. Our legal team stands ready to review your case with compassion and confidentiality. If you or someone you love has experienced sexual abuse by a teacher, contact us today for a free consultation to understand your legal options and take the first step toward healing and justice.
