Adult charged in connection to sexual exploitation of minor

[Photo courtesy Ocala Police Department]

A 25-year-old former physical education instructor at a local private school has been arrested on charges related to sexual exploitation of a student on social media, the Ocala Police Department has reported.

Isaiah Paige of Ocala was arrested Oct. 22 on charges of possession of child pornography (13 counts), promoting sexual performance by a child (13 counts), offense against a student by an authority figure, transmission of harmful material to a minor and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, according to an OPD press release.

The OPD press release alleges the former PE teacher at First Assembly Christian School had a weeks-long online interaction with a 16-year-old student on Snapchat, which was discovered by the student’s mother.

OPD detective Kyle Kern found “sufficient probable cause” to arrest Paige.

According to Marion County Jail online records, Paige remained in custody as of Oct. 24, with a total bail of $325,000.

An Oct. 22 email statement released by First Assembly Christian School Principal Earlene Carter stated that school officials were “deeply grieved” by the arrest.

“Earlier today, Mr. Isaiah Paige, P.E. teacher, was arrested on charges of child pornography, which included an inappropriate relationship with a student from our Christian school. We encourage anyone with additional knowledge or information regarding this matter to contact the Ocala Police Department immediately” the email stated in part.

“As a Christian school, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy regarding child abuse or sexual misconduct of any kind. We do not and will not cover up any form of abuse. As part of our standard procedure, we report all suspicions of potential child abuse to the proper authorities. Our hiring process includes thorough interviews and background checks for all employees and volunteers. Additionally, our leadership team implements child protection policies that adhere to best practices on a national level and align with Florida State law,” the email stated.

“Given the serious nature of these allegations and in consultation with legal counsel, Mr. Paige’s employment has been terminated effective immediately, and he is no longer permitted on church or school property or at any school events,” the email stated.

The email stated that the school officials’ “thoughts and prayers are with all those affected” and invited anyone impacted to contact the principal through facs.ocalafirst.org