Former Daly City Middle School Teacher Sentenced to Over 10 Years for Sex Acts with Student

Marcus Deon Dyson pleaded no contest to 14 felony counts involving a 14-year-old victim.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A former Daly City middle school music teacher, Marcus Deon Dyson, was sentenced to over 10 years in state prison after being convicted of 14 felony counts of sexual acts with a 14-year-old student. The incidents occurred both at the school and at Dyson's home, according to prosecutors.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious consequences for teachers who abuse their positions of trust and authority to sexually exploit students, a disturbing trend that has unfortunately occurred at schools across the country. It also raises concerns about potential gaps in school policies and procedures to prevent and detect such predatory behavior.

The details

Dyson, 52, was sentenced on Monday by Judge Kevin Dunleavy to 10 years and 8 months in prison after pleading no contest on September 19 to 6 counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 16 and 8 counts of oral copulation on a child under 18. The sexual relationship began in 2014 when the victim was 14 years old and took place both at Robertson Middle School, where Dyson worked as a music teacher, and at his home.

  • The sexual relationship began in 2014 when the victim was 14 years old.
  • Dyson pleaded no contest to the charges on September 19, 2026.
  • Dyson was sentenced on Monday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Marcus Deon Dyson

A 52-year-old former middle school music teacher at Robertson Middle School in Daly City, California who was convicted of sexually abusing a 14-year-old student.

Stephen Wagstaffe

The San Mateo County District Attorney who prosecuted the case against Dyson.

Judge Kevin Dunleavy

The judge who sentenced Dyson to over 10 years in prison.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This case highlights the serious consequences for teachers who abuse their positions of trust and authority to sexually exploit students, a disturbing trend that has unfortunately occurred at schools across the country.”

— Stephen Wagstaffe, San Mateo County District Attorney (Patch.com)

What’s next

The judge's sentence of over 10 years in prison for Dyson's crimes sends a strong message about the severity of teacher-student sexual abuse. Authorities will continue to closely monitor cases like this to ensure schools have robust policies in place to protect vulnerable students.

The takeaway

This case underscores the urgent need for schools, districts, and communities to prioritize student safety and implement comprehensive measures to prevent and address sexual misconduct by educators. Vigilance and swift action are critical to safeguarding young people's wellbeing.