A former mathematics teacher at Fort Lauderdale's St. Thomas Aquinas High School was hauled off to jail Thursday, accused of getting too personal with one of his students. Forty-three-year-old Andrew Fierle of Sunrise faces three felony charges for allegedly engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old student, reported Local 10 News.
The student, who met Fierle during her junior year, told investigators that their relationship began as a friendship that later became sexual. A court affidavit reveals that Fierle spent a "excessive amount of time" with the student including times before and after school, at his weekend job, and during non-work hours, according to an arrest affidavit acquired by the Local 10 News. Their exchanges included fondling over clothing and oral sex, the victim said.
Following allegations that emerged in 2021, Fierle was dismissed from the school. The malfeasance came to light after a parent complained about Fierle tutoring their daughter at his home, which breached school and Archdiocese of Miami policies, the Archdiocese confirmed in a statement. He was also reported to the Florida Department of Education, leading to a three-year suspension of his teaching certificate, Local 10 News detailed.
In a Friday court appearance, Fierle, now 44, was ordered to post a $75,000 bond and was banned from contact with minors and returning to any school campus. The disgraced teacher, who lives with his wife and two dogs, assured the judge he had no prior arrests, stated WSVN in their coverage. While making his plea, WSVN reported, Fierle managed to secure his release with a GPS ankle monitor and now awaits further proceedings.
Fierle's bond conditions, including a no-contact order with any minor, are part of the measures to prevent further incidents. "I do find probable cause for your arrest on three counts of an authority figure engaging in a romantic relationship," said the presiding judge during the hearing, confirming information provided by WSVN. He is slotted to remain confined to his premises under watch after extenuating his freedom with payment.
