News Summary
A math teacher and powerlifting coach at Texas City High School has been arrested after attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor during an undercover operation. John Derrick Taylor, 55, believed he was meeting a 15-year-old girl, who was actually an undercover detective. The incident has raised safety concerns among parents and officials, leading to his placement on administrative leave and an ongoing investigation into potential additional victims.
Texas City – A 55-year-old math teacher and powerlifting coach at Texas City High School, John Derrick Taylor, was arrested on July 15, 2025, for allegedly attempting to engage in sexual activity with a minor. The arrest was made by the Harris County Precinct One’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, who were conducting an undercover investigation.
Authorities report that Taylor believed he was arranging to meet a 15-year-old girl for a sexual encounter. However, the purported minor was, in fact, an undercover detective. During the investigation, clear evidence was gathered, including explicit online conversations where Taylor sent sexually explicit messages and photos. The teacher had planned to meet the supposed minor at a hotel to engage in sexual intercourse.
On the day of his arrest, Taylor was still actively working with students at the Texas City High School field house. This incident has raised significant concerns among parents and officials regarding the safety of students under the state’s education system.
The Texas City Independent School District (ISD) confirmed that Taylor has been employed with them since 2018, and they noted his previous work history at other school districts in the Houston area and in Fort Stockton, West Texas. Following his arrest, the district placed Taylor on administrative leave and has prohibited him from returning to any school campus or engaging in any school-related activities. In addition, the school district is cooperating with law enforcement to ensure thorough proceedings and plans to bring the situation before the Board of Trustees for potential contract termination this August.
Taylor is facing serious charges of online solicitation of a minor, which is classified as a second-degree felony and carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison. The incident has been described as “especially unfortunate” by local authorities, emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of addressing such predatory behavior, specifically coming from someone in a trusted position like that of a teacher.
Currently, an ongoing investigation has been initiated to explore the extent of Taylor’s contact with minors and any additional potential victims. Investigators are urging anyone who may have information related to Taylor or this case to reach out to the Harris County Precinct One Internet Crimes Against Children Unit.
The arrest has sparked discussions concerning the screening and monitoring of school employees, with many calling for enhanced measures to protect students from potential predators. As the community processes the shock of these allegations against an educator, school officials and law enforcement are taking steps to ensure that justice is served.
This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibility of not only educators but also the community as a whole to protect its youth from any potential harm. Further updates are expected as the investigation continues, and the Texas City ISD navigates the aftermath of this troubling event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC13 News
- Wikipedia: Online Solicitation of Children
- Click2Houston
- Google Search: Online Solicitation of Minors
- Hoodline
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Exploitation
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
