A 47-year-old teacher at West Port High School was arrested by the Ocala Police Department after he was accused of having inappropriate contact with female students.
On January 9, a school resource officer at West Port High School was informed by multiple students that Bernard Smith – a criminal justice teacher and former law enforcement officer – had engaged in inappropriate contact with students, according to the police department.
OPD stated that the alleged misconduct occurred over a period of several years on the school campus and included “fist-bumping” students’ breasts, touching students’ thighs, calling a student “baby,” making inappropriate comments about a student’s breast, giving a student a long hug after speaking about her sex life, making inappropriate comments about a student turning 18, and sending a friend request to a student’s social media account.
An OPD detective investigated the allegations and probable cause was developed for Smith’s arrest, according to the police department.
On Wednesday, February 8, Smith was arrested and transported to Marion County Jail where he is being held on $40,000 bond. He is facing four felony charges for offenses against students by an authority figure (sexual conduct).
After Smith’s arrest, the Ocala Police Department released the following statement: “This is an alarming reminder that even some people in positions of power and trust can be corruptible, and it serves as a strong motivator to remain vigilant and ensure that those with such authority are held accountable for their actions. Making sure students are kept safe is our top priority and we have zero tolerance for this type of misconduct.”
“We commend the students who had the courage to come forward to report this behavior,” stated the police department. “We ask if anyone else has experienced similar behavior from Mr. Smith, to please let law enforcement know.”