September 5, 2025

Tallahassee School Resource Deputy Arrested for Misconduct

News Summary

Saul Garcia, a former school resource deputy at Godby High School in Tallahassee, has been arrested for unlawful sexual activity with a 16-year-old student. Following an investigation initiated by an anonymous complaint, law enforcement found evidence, including text messages and exchanged nude photographs. Garcia, who was placed on administrative leave during the inquiry, is no longer employed by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. This incident raises concerns about the integrity of school staff and the protection of students.

Tallahassee, Florida – Saul Garcia, a former school resource deputy at Godby High School, has been arrested on charges of unlawful sexual activity with a 16-year-old female student. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office took action after an investigation was initiated on April 16 following an anonymous complaint regarding inappropriate conduct between Garcia and the student.

Garcia, who had been serving as a school resource deputy since 2018, was removed from his position at Godby High School and placed on administrative leave as soon as the investigation commenced. Law enforcement authorities issued a warrant for his arrest, leading to Garcia surrendering himself at the Wakulla County Jail on Thursday. Following his arrest, Garcia is no longer employed with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation established probable cause based on the disclosure from the student and corroborating evidence, which included text messages and other electronic communications. Reports indicate that the inappropriate relationship escalated to Garcia logging the student’s school absences as excused without proper authorization. This included engaging in the exchange of nude photographs electronically.

According to officials, the incident appears to be isolated, with no other students reported to be involved. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its efforts to ensure the safety and security of all students within the school district.

Background of the Allegations

Before his role at Godby High School, Garcia was a school resource deputy at Fort Braden School. Throughout his career, he emphasized community-oriented policing strategies aimed at diverting youth from the juvenile justice system. Garcia’s background also includes military service, where he served in the United States Marines from 2003 until 2018, finishing his service as a staff sergeant. Additionally, he worked for the Quincy Police Department for a decade prior to joining the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

In recent months, the issue of inappropriate behavior by school-related personnel has garnered significant attention, as multiple incidents have been reported involving staff members in various educational institutions. These events have raised ongoing concerns regarding the integrity and monitoring of school staff, particularly those in positions of authority and responsibility over students.

Community Response

This incident has sent shockwaves through the Tallahassee community, prompting discussions around the responsibilities and scrutiny facing school resource officers. The role of such personnel is typically aimed at fostering a safe learning environment; however, allegations like those against Garcia stoke fears among parents and guardians regarding the protection of vulnerable students.

The Leon County School Board has been urged to take this opportunity to reevaluate the vetting and monitoring processes for staff members in educational settings. As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring that inappropriate conduct is promptly addressed and that students are safeguarded from potential harm in the future.

Garcia’s arrest serves as a stark reminder of the expectations placed on those overseeing the welfare of students and the legal boundaries that must remain intact within educational environments.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Leon County Deputy Faces Charges for Unlawful Relationship
Leon County Schools Employee Placed on Leave Amid Molestation Allegations
Marion County Operation Leads to Arrest of 40 Child Predators
University Teams Highlighted at 2025 ACC Kickoff in Charlotte
Marva Johnson Confirmed as President of Florida A&M University
Florida State University Football Secures Key Commitments
Florida Legislature Approves Cell Phone and Animal Cruelty Bills
Florida Schools Enforce Strict Cell Phone Ban
Leon County School District Announces New Principal Appointments
Leon County School District Announces New Principal Appointments

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER

The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER

Stay Connected

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit