A Santa Monica High School teacher has been arrested in connection with allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a 16-year-old student, authorities announced. Ingo Horst Gaida, 58, faces misdemeanor charges of annoying or molesting a child under 18 and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, Fox LA reported.
Police began investigating the matter on January 27, learning that the inappropriate activities took place across Los Angeles County in late 2024. Following an "immediate and thorough investigation of the allegations," Gaida was taken into custody after search and arrest warrants were served, according to the Santa Monica government's press release. He was then cited, and released pending a court appearance.
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) promptly placed Gaida on administrative leave once the allegations surfaced. "SMMUSD takes allegations of this nature seriously and is fully cooperating with law enforcement on this investigation," Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton said, in a statement obtained by Santa Monica Daily Press, emphasizing the district's commitment to student safety.
The teacher, who has been employed at the Santa Monica High School since September 1993, has no prior criminal history. "We wish to reassure all of our educational partners that the school and district have and will continue to take every precaution, to ensure the safety of students and staff at our schools," Shelton added. The case will be reviewed by the Santa Monica City Attorney's Office.
Authorities are reaching out to the public for further information. Those with knowledge of the case or other potential victims are encouraged to contact Officer Destiny King, Sgt. David Haro, or the Watch Commander desk, as provided in the statements across multiple sources.
