SEFFNER, Fla. – A substitute teacher has been arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) for allegedly sharing and displaying multiple sexual images, including bestiality, to students while working at Jennings Middle School.
Chase Rush, 22, was taken into custody on June 10, 2025, following an investigation that began on December 9, 2024. According to detectives, Rush instructed 7th-grade students in his classroom to activate their AirDrop feature on Apple devices.
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He then allegedly sent content containing nudity and bestiality to four students with iPhones. Additionally, seven other students reportedly gathered around Rush as he displayed the same explicit material to them directly.
During an interview with HCSO detectives, Rush admitted to showing the same illicit content to a 12-year-old relative.
Rush faces a litany of charges, including:
- Film, Distribute, or Possess Image or Video of Sexual Activity with an Animal (x9)
- Sell or Distribute Obscene Material to a Minor (x8)
- Transmission of Harmful Material to Minor (x4)
- Unlawful Use of Two-Way Communications Device
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“It’s revolting to think that someone trusted to educate and guide our children could act in such a predatory and disgraceful manner,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This man used his role as a teacher to prey on kids. He had every opportunity to be a positive influence; instead, he chose to become a predator.”
The HCSO confirmed that Rush was employed by Kelly Education, a staffing agency, and was not a direct employee of Hillsborough County Public Schools.
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