LAKELAND, Fla. – Authorities in Polk County have arrested a 32-year-old substitute teacher following a series of disturbing reports from students at two local middle schools. Emmanuel Sanchez, who worked under the name “Mr. Jeremiah,” was taken into custody by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and faces charges of lewd and lascivious conduct on a minor.
The investigation began on February 25, 2026, at Kathleen Middle School. A 13-year-old girl told school officials that Sanchez sat beside her, pressed his leg against hers, and began rubbing her thigh.
According to the report, he made several inappropriate comments, telling the girl she was beautiful and that he liked her body. Detectives interviewed seven other students who were in the room at the time; those witnesses provided statements that backed up the victim’s story.
As deputies dug deeper, more allegations surfaced from Lake Gibson Middle School. On March 3, 2026, two 12-year-old boys reported that Sanchez had touched them inappropriately and made suggestive remarks. Other students in that classroom told investigators they witnessed Sanchez appearing visibly aroused while around the children.
When detectives questioned Sanchez at his Lakeland home on March 6, he admitted to being the person students called “Jeremiah.” While he described the 13-year-old girl in detail and confirmed the events of that day took place, he denied physically touching her. He also denied the allegations involving the male students.
“This is highly inappropriate and disgusting behavior by a substitute teacher,” Sheriff Grady Judd said. “He was clearly using his position as a teacher to prey upon this student. We are reviewing other interactions he has had with other students. We encourage other students to come forward if they have been inappropriately approached by or touched by this man. We want to make sure he is held accountable and that he does not have this kind of access to other children.”
Sanchez was employed through Kelly Services, a temporary staffing agency. Polk County Public Schools officials have confirmed that he is barred from working in any capacity within the school district moving forward.
Superintendent Fred Heid expressed his frustration with the breach of trust, stating, “This is disgusting behavior. We expect substitute teachers and all individuals who work with students to protect them and act appropriately. We will always cooperate with law enforcement to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students and keep individuals like this out of our schools.”
The Sheriff’s Office is keeping the investigation open and asks anyone with further information to contact them immediately.
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