A former music teacher with a history of teaching in Duval County has been placed under arrest due to allegations of child molestation. Gregg Gafford, 42, was apprehended on Friday, following the issuance of two warrants for lewd and lascivious molestation, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives from the Special Assault Unit were involved in Gafford's arrest, which came about after reports surfaced from two separate incidents. Records reveal that while Gafford was at St. Matthew’s Catholic School in 2023, a student came forward alleging that he groped them during an after-school club. Moreover, another accusation dates back to 2011, at Normandy Village Elementary, where Gafford had also worked as a teacher, and reports then, had surfaced of molestation.
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office issued a statement highlighting their commitment to safeguarding children, who they refer to as "the most precious resource." The Office asserts that "anyone who violates a child’s safety will face the full weight of the law." This strong stand underscores the gravity of such offenses and the law enforcement's dedication to protecting the vulnerable.
In light of these events, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has extended an invitation to the public to come forward with any additional information that may pertain to Gafford's conduct. They have urged individuals to contact the Sheriff’s Office by calling 904.630.0500 or emailing at [email protected]. Detectives are particularly keen on discovering if there have been more victims in the years Gafford spent teaching in the community.
