GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — A DeKalb County teacher was arrested for child sex crimes early last week, according to the Gwinnett County Police Department.
Marcus Knight,49, was charged with four counts of aggravated child molestation by sodomy, aggravated child molestation, enticing a child for indecent purposes, child molestation and obscene internet contact with a child.
DeKalb County School District said the teacher, who worked at Stone Mountain Middle School, was placed on administrative leave.
Authorities said that the mother of a 14-year-old victim found "sexually explicit conversations" with her child and an unknown man. She then contacted the police on Sept. 3, a release stated.
Detectives posed as the child and planned a meeting with the suspect. Knight arrived at the location and was taken into custody, police said in a release.
When he was arrested, authorities said he had multiple high-level THC vape cartridges.
The victim was not a student of Knight's, according to authorities.
Gwinnett County Police said Knight could have additional charges against him as they continue their investigation.
Those with any information about the case are encouraged to contact detectives at 770-513-5300. Tipsters can remain anonymous at 404-577-8477 or visit here.
The DeKalb County School District released the following statement in regards to the incident:
The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) takes allegations of inappropriate or unlawful behavior in any of our schools very seriously and prioritizes the safety and well-being of our students and staff above all else.
DCSD is aware of serious allegations against a Stone Mountain Middle School (SMMS) teacher regarding sexual misconduct against a minor. Although the allegations do not involve an SMMS student, we are still following strict District protocols. Due to the gravity of the circumstances surrounding these allegations, the teacher was immediately placed on administrative leave and banned from all DCSD schools and properties.
DCSD Police and appropriate District and school personnel are fully cooperating with the Gwinnett County Police Department's investigation while continuing to conduct its own.
DCSD remains committed to upholding the integrity of the ongoing investigations. Therefore, no additional statements will be released until all investigations have been completed and the District has had time to review the findings.