Jacksonville arts leader faces upgraded charge in teen relationship case

Former dance company CEO now charged with sexual battery involving 13-year-old

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

A former CEO of a Jacksonville dance company is now charged with sexual battery in connection with an alleged months-long relationship involving a 13-year-old, according to court records. The case involves organizations tied to the City of Jacksonville and Duval County Schools, with separate charges and court hearings set for March 10 and March 17.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the abuse of power and trust within local arts organizations that work closely with youth and schools. It highlights the need for stronger oversight and safeguards to protect vulnerable children from predatory behavior by those in positions of authority.

The details

The former CEO of a Jacksonville dance company is facing an upgraded charge of sexual battery in connection with an alleged inappropriate relationship with a 13-year-old that lasted several months. The case involves organizations with ties to the City of Jacksonville and Duval County Schools, with separate court hearings scheduled for March 10 and March 17.

  • The alleged relationship between the former CEO and the 13-year-old occurred over several months.
  • Charges were filed and a court hearing is scheduled for March 10.
  • A second court hearing is scheduled for March 17.

The players

Former dance company CEO

The former CEO of a Jacksonville dance company who is now charged with sexual battery involving a 13-year-old.

City of Jacksonville

The local government entity that has ties to the organizations involved in this case.

Duval County Schools

The public school district that also has ties to the organizations involved in this case.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 10 whether or not to allow the former CEO out on bail. A second court hearing is scheduled for March 17.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for stronger oversight and safeguards within youth-serving organizations to protect vulnerable children from predatory behavior by those in positions of authority. It underscores the importance of thorough background checks, clear codes of conduct, and robust reporting mechanisms to prevent such abuses of power in the future.