An Arizona high school teacher and coach who admitted to filming sexual interactions with students on campus has been arrested.
Eric Curtis Chapman, 43, was arrested after a March 25 investigation revealed nude photos had been sent to a minor, according to court documents cited by ABC15.
Chapman, a teacher and head baseball coach at Cortez High School, has since been relieved of his duties.
Fox 10 reported that Chapman was detained on April 10.
“After acknowledging his Miranda rights, Chapman admitted to using the social media account and to filming sexual interactions on his high school campus, in classrooms, in the coach locker room, and inside his personal vehicle,” the court documents stated. “Chapman identified two current male students, both minors, and one former student who is now an adult.”
Chapman claimed he met all three alleged victims through an adult dating site.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office said two of the victims are current students at Cortez High School. The third is a student at a different school.
Court records also state that Chapman admitted to downloading hundreds of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, according to ABC15.
Chapman was arrested and is being held on a $250,000 cash bond. He faces multiple counts of sexual conduct with a minor and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The Glendale Union High School District released the following statement to parents, as reported by ABC15:
“We are writing to inform you that Cortez High School administration was notified by the Phoenix Police Department that one of our teachers was arrested on charges related to crimes against children.
Upon learning of the allegations, school and district administration took immediate action. The teacher has been relieved of all duties. The Glendale Union High School District takes these matters seriously and works closely with law enforcement to support their investigations and ensure student safety.
As this is an active police investigation, we are unable to share further details. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.”
Check back for updates.
[Feature Photo: Eric Curtis Chapman/MCSO]
