FOREST — A Forest Municipal School District assistant coach has been arrested and charged with multiple sex crimes involving a minor student, authorities said.
Austin Taylor faces several counts, including sexual battery, fondling or gratification, contributing to the delinquency or neglect of a minor, grooming, computer luring of a person under 18 for sexual purposes, and molesting or touching a child for lustful purposes. He is also charged with position of authority enhancement, enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes, adultery and fornication between a teacher and pupil.
Police said the alleged offenses occurred on multiple occasions. To protect the victim’s privacy, no identifying details are being released. Investigators said the case developed through reports from school officials and digital evidence.
“This is a very disturbing case that underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting our children in our schools,” said Forest Police Chief Steven Bell. ““Let me be clear to those who want to prey on our children, as you can tell with these intense charges placed on Austin Taylor – we will not tolerate our children being placed into predator’s hands like Taylor’s. If you decide to harm our children or have an inkling of a thought to hurt our beloved children, we will charge you to the fullest of the law.”
Police also commended their criminal investigations division and the school resource officer for their work on the case.
Authorities urged anyone with additional information to contact the Forest Police Department at 601-469-4141. The investigation is ongoing.
