SAN ANTONIO — A 35-year-old SAISD teacher accused of sending "inappropriate text messages" to a high school student was arrested Friday, authorities say.
According to officials with the Cibolo Police Department, the victim on Thursday reported the messages allegedly sent by Thomas Rivera to an administrator at Steele High School in Cibolo, where Rivera used to teach. A police investigation ensued, culminating in Rivera being taken into custody at Lanier High School "without incident."
He has been charged with having an improper relationship with a student, a second-degree felony that could put him behind bars for as much as 20 years if he's convicted.
"The strength and bravery of the victim by coming forward and quick action by school staff and administrators in both school districts played a key role in law enforcement taking Rivera into custody quickly," CPD said in a news release.
Meanwhile, investigators are looking into whether there are other victims who have been contacted by Rivera, and are encouraging parents of his former students to speak with their children. Anyone who thinks they may have been a victim is urged to contact authorities at (210)659-1999.
An SAISD spokesperson told KENS 5 the district was "in the process of gathering information to ensure we have the full knowledge of what has occurred."
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