Middleburg, FL – A 34-year-old man from Orange Park, identified as Joshua Dice, was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon outside a gym on Blanding Boulevard. Dice, a now-former teacher at Calvary Christian Academy in Middleburg, is accused of traveling to meet a minor for sex and faces several felony charges.
Arrest Report Details Serious Allegations
According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Dice is charged with using a computer to solicit a child for unlawful sexual contact, unlawful use of a two-way communication device, and traveling to meet a minor for sex. Specific details surrounding the investigation and Dice’s statements to law enforcement remain redacted in the official arrest report.
Immediate Termination and School Response to Sex Crime Allegations
Calvary Christian Academy confirmed Dice’s arrest and stated that he was immediately removed from his teaching position and his role at Calvary Baptist Church. Pastor Ken Pledger released a statement emphasizing the school’s cooperation with law enforcement and clarifying that Dice’s arrest is not connected to the activities of either the church or the academy.
“Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of our members and students. Calvary Baptist Church and Calvary Christian Academy maintain a strict policy of zero tolerance for abuse,” Pledger stated.
Previous Incident at the Same School
This arrest follows a 2022 case involving another teacher from Calvary Christian Academy. That individual, then 26 years old, was arrested on charges of sexual battery after police alleged a sexual relationship with a student.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Dice’s arrest. The school and church leadership reaffirm their commitment to maintaining a safe environment and are working closely with law enforcement during this process.
Victims’ Rights After Teacher Abuse Allegations
When allegations of sexual abuse by educators surface, families and survivors often face a maze of uncertainty and difficult decisions. Attorney Michael Haggard, who has represented numerous victims in Florida, shares practical guidance on the legal steps available for those affected by teacher misconduct, outlining how the law can support victims and hold institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Michael, when a teacher is arrested on charges like these, what steps can victims or their families take?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: Victims and their families have several paths they can consider. Beyond cooperating with law enforcement, they can file civil lawsuits against the individual and, in some cases, the institution if there’s evidence of negligence. Schools have a duty to protect students, and if they failed in that responsibility, they can be held accountable.
Banville: What kind of compensation might be available through a civil case?
Haggard: Victims can seek damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, counseling costs, and sometimes punitive damages. These cases can also prompt institutions to review and improve their safety protocols, which helps prevent future incidents.
Banville: How important is it for victims to speak with an attorney right away?
Haggard: It’s very important. An attorney can help preserve evidence, guide families through the process, and ensure their rights are protected from the very beginning. The sooner they reach out, the better their chances of achieving justice and healing.
Support Is Within Reach: Contact Us for a Free Consultation Today
If your family has been impacted by sexual abuse involving a teacher, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options can be the first step toward healing and accountability. Reach out now for a free consultation—our team is ready to listen, guide, and fight for the justice you deserve.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
