The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a substitute teacher for having an inappropriate and sexual relationship with a student.
Between October 1st and 3rd, 2024, Joseph Prevatte, 39, was a substitute teacher at Lennard High School. Through investigative means, detectives discovered that Prevatte sent inappropriate messages and engaged in sexual interactions with a student at the school.
On November 18, 2024, Prevatte was arrested and charged with one count of Lewd or Lascivious Battery and one count of Harmful Explicit Communication to a Minor.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Prevatte was a suspect in an investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, where he was a substitute teacher at a Manatee County high school. He was charged with one count of Soliciting or Engaging in Lewd Conduct with a Student.
“The actions of this man are despicable. I am proud of the diligent work of our detectives, who followed every lead to bring this individual to justice,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “As a father, I can’t imagine the concerns this news brings. Please rest assured that teamHCSO will do everything possible to hold accountable those who prey on our children.”
Anyone with information on this case, or if someone believes they may have been a victim of Joseph Prevatte, please call HCSO at 813-247-8200.
This is an active investigation. The Public Affairs Office will release any update.