A teacher in Pinellas Park, Florida, has been arrested after he allegedly exchanged sexually explicit text messages with some of his students, even calling one minor “mommy” in a disturbing exchange.
Detectives with the Pinellas Park Police Department began an investigation in December 2025 after they received reports that teacher Brett Caskey had inappropriate conduct with some of his students, according to 10 Tampa Bay News.
Police believe that Caskey, 41, used his position as a coach at charter school Plato Academy to gain the trust of female students. During his time as a coach, he reportedly bought the girls clothing and food on different occasions.
Additionally, the affidavit stated that several instances of inappropriate conduct took place on school grounds between Caskey and his students.
Caskey has been accused of allegedly kissing a female student as she sat on his lap inside his classroom, according to the outlet. That same student also told detectives that she was in Caskey’s classroom, applying makeup on him, when she alleged that he rubbed the outside of her thighs over her clothing.
The student even claimed that Caskey sent her photos of his genitals between May and August 2025, according to the affidavit.
Caskey allegedly communicated with the girl via Snapchat, while several students told detectives that he would often refer to the girl as “mommy” or “princess” when they communicated. Meanwhile, the victim reportedly referred to Caskey as “daddy” in their steamy exchanges.
Caskey was arrested on Tuesday, February 3, and has been charged with lewd or lascivious conduct, according to online records viewed by Luxury Handbag Shopping. He is currently in custody and has not yet been given bail as of Wednesday, February 4.
It is not currently clear if Caskey has entered a plea or retained legal representation following his arrest.
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment.
Plato Academy’s corporate office confirmed that Caskey was put on leave as soon as they learned of the allegations made against him.
“Plato Academy Schools is deeply committed to the safety and well-being of our students. We take all allegations regarding employee conduct with the utmost seriousness. In light of recent developments, we would like to provide the community with the following information,” the office said in a statement to 10 Tampa Bay News. “Plato Academy Schools received a Fortify Florida tip alleging possible misconduct involving Brett Caskey prior to the winter holiday.”
The statement continued: “Upon receipt of the tip, administration took action by placing Mr. Caskey on immediate leave pending an investigation by law enforcement. Additionally, administration reported the Fortify FL tip to DCF to ensure a comprehensive review of the allegations by all appropriate authorities.”
The office added that they were “cooperating fully with law enforcement and will continue to follow all applicable laws, policies and established protocols.”
“As this matter is currently under investigation by law enforcement, we are unable to share additional details at this time, other than that Mr. Caskey has not been an employee of Plato Academy since we were first notified of the concern,” the statement concluded.
