A Bastrop Independent School District teacher found himself on the wrong side of the law after being charged with online solicitation of a minor. James Austin Byrd, a 42-year-old history teacher at Cedar Creek High School, was arrested on Dec. 27, North Richland Hills Police Department confirmed.
Byrd, caught in the digital act, thought he was communicating with a 15-year-old girl on Whisper, a chat platform, but was actually conversing with an undercover officer, according to authorities. He was detained after he made plans to meet the supposed teenager in North Richland Hills, as reported by KXAN.
As the investigation unfolded, involving the North Richland Hills Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children and Fort Worth detectives, Byrd's professional life unraveled. CBS News Texas reported that multiple local agencies took part in the joint operation that led to his apprehension. Bastrop ISD swiftly placed Byrd on administrative leave upon learning of his arrest and accepted his resignation on January 4.
In a communication to parents, Cedar Creek High School principal Kasie Stagman stated, "Beginning today, your child’s history class will be taught by a substitute teacher who is certified and experienced in teaching history courses," ensuring that "high-quality teaching and learning in your child’s history class will continue uninterrupted for the rest of this semester." The principal’s letter was obtained by KXAN. Meanwhile, the Texas Education Agency is investigating Byrd, but has not commented further due to the ongoing probe.
