A former substitute teacher at Haines City High School has been arrested and charged with sexual offenses against a 16-year-old student. 23-year-old Chase Crabb of Kissimmee is accused of engaging in an inappropriate online relationship with the student, sending sexually explicit messages and soliciting nude photos.
The victim reported the incidents to her mother in January 2025, revealing that she had been receiving sexually charged messages and pictures from Crabb, whom she knew as “Mr. Chase,” since December 2023. The communication began when the victim was 15 years old and progressed from email to text messages and social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Discord.
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According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Crabb’s messages became increasingly sexually suggestive after he learned the victim had broken up with her boyfriend. He sent her explicit messages, pictures of his crotch, and attempted to convince her to engage in sexual intercourse with him.
Disturbing text messages sent by Crabb to the victim included admissions of his attraction to minors and references to “grooming.” He also expressed concern about facing legal consequences for his actions.
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office launched a joint investigation after receiving a report about the inappropriate relationship.
“Sexual exploitation of any child by anyone, in every circumstance is horrific and unacceptable, especially when it’s a substitute teacher,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “They are trusted to guide and protect our kids, not take advantage of them. When someone in that role crosses the line, it’s a serious betrayal of trust. We’re committed to making sure anyone who harms a child is held accountable and faces the consequences for their actions.”
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Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Fred Heid echoed the Sheriff’s sentiments, stating, “It’s unacceptable and disgusting for any educator to use their position to have inappropriate contact with a student. People who behave this way will be caught, and we fully support the efforts of law enforcement to help protect our students.”
Crabb, who was employed as a substitute teacher by Kelly Services, last worked at Haines City High School in March 2024. He was later terminated due to inactivity. Polk County Public Schools confirmed they had not received any prior reports of inappropriate behavior from Crabb during his employment.
Crabb has been charged with transmission of harmful material to a minor and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, both third-degree felonies.
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