Michelle Lynn Hancock, a 41-year-old former special education teacher at Heritage High School in Palm Bay, Florida, has been arrested on charges of engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old boy, who is the brother of one of her former students. Hancock faces charges including transmitting information harmful to minors, using a computer to seduce or solicit a child, traveling to meet a child after using a computer to lure them, lewd and lascivious touching, sexual battery by an authority figure, and soliciting or engaging in conduct with a student.
Authorities responded to a suspicious vehicle on the side of the road on Wednesday, where they found Hancock with the teen. Both individuals reportedly admitted to engaging in sexual activity. According to an affidavit, Hancock met the teen after having previously taught his older brother.
The teen had withdrawn from Heritage High School and enrolled in virtual classes but began visiting Hancock at the school. He told authorities they had kissed in her classroom. The pair reportedly maintained a relationship for a time before separating, but they resumed contact through texting approximately one month prior to Hancock's arrest. Police stated that Hancock also sent the teen explicit photos of herself.
A spokesperson for Brevard Public Schools confirmed that Hancock is no longer employed by the district and stated, "We are deeply troubled by these allegations. The District remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students."
Hancock is currently being held in the Brevard County jail on a $525,000 bond.