Teacher in 'sexting' case suspended

NORTH SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) - The North Smithfield School District announced Tuesday it has suspended a teacher and high school coach accused of sending sexually inappropriate text messages to students.

Stephen DeMeo, 31, of Johnston is charged with indecent solicitation of a child; possession of marijuana; and possession of child pornography.

"As a result of an investigation in conjunction with the Rhode Island State Police, one of our employees was arrested for inappropriate use of the internet and related matters," the district said in a news release. "The North Smithfield School District has taken appropriate administrative action and this individual will be placed on administrative leave until the matter is resolved."

The State Police Computer Crimes Unit launched the investigation after being contacted by the school department.

Investigators said a female student complained DeMeo had been contacting her via text messages, email and instant messages for two years and that the messages recently became sexually explicit.

After questioning the student, conducting analysis of a cell phone and executing a search warrant at DeMeo's home, troopers arrested the teacher Monday.

DeMeo, who is a social studies teacher and a varsity girls soccer coach at the school, did not enter a plea. A judge set bail at $10,000 and barred him from contact with minors. 

Parents tell Eyewitness News that they are appalled by the news.

"The whole incident doesn't make me feel good at all. It shouldn't be happening," said John Smith.