Las Cruces middle school teacher arrested on child sexual contact charges
Las Cruces police arrested a middle school teacher accused of inappropriate contact and communication with a 14-year-old student.
Police say suspect had inappropriate contact and communication with 14-year-old student
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - Las Cruces police arrested a middle school teacher Wednesday who is accused of having inappropriate contact with a 14-year-old student.
Wyatt Cornelius, 43, faces one third-degree felony count of criminal sexual contact of a minor, along with fourth-degree felony counts of child solicitation by an electronic device and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, according to police.
Investigators said they learned of the allegations April 10 and began an investigation. At the time, Cornelius was a teacher and coach at Camino Real Middle School.
Police said the investigation found Cornelius and the student exchanged inappropriate messages on Snapchat. Investigators also allege he inappropriately touched the girl’s buttocks and legs in class and during sporting events.
Cornelius was arrested Wednesday and is being held without bond at the Doña Ana County Detention Center.
Police are not identifying the student and are withholding additional details to protect the victim and avoid interfering with the investigation.
Anyone with information about similar incidents is asked to call Las Cruces police at 575-526-0795. Victims can also contact La Piñon Sexual Assault Recovery Services’ 24-hour hotline at 575-526-3437.
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