The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has arrested a teacher at Idea Hope Charter School for unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
On June 17, 2024, deputies responded to the Marathon Gas Station at 1302 North Parsons Avenue, Tampa, regarding an incident that had just occurred. Deputies learned that Vernon White Jr., who was 31 at the time, gave a ride to a 17-year-old. Once in the vehicle, the victim and White performed sexual acts with each other.
HCSO's Special Victims Section Detectives took over the investigation and spoke to White, who admitted to giving the victim a ride but denied any sexual activity occurring. However, DNA testing confirmed sexual activity did take place.
On March 6, 2025, deputies arrested White without incident.
He has been charged with:
- Unlawful Sexual Activity With a Minor (x2)
- Lewd or Lascivious Touching of Minor 16 or 17 Years of Age by Person 24 Years of Age or Older
The victim was not a student at Idea Hope Charter School. White had no disciplinary history at the school, where he has been employed as a teacher since 2021.
"A teacher is supposed to be a trusted community member who looks out for the well-being of children. This crime is a reprehensible betrayal of someone in a position of authority," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Our detectives conducted a thorough investigation to bring this individual to justice."
The investigation remains ongoing. Any updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.