A Virginia high school teacher, Kevin Lee Joyce, was arrested in September after being caught in a child predator sting operation, according to police. Joyce, a 39-year-old teacher at Forest Park Academy in Roanoke City Public Schools, allegedly attempted to meet a girl he believed to be under 15. The Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office initiated the online operation on September 10, suspecting Joyce of predatory behavior. After admitting to the allegations, Joyce was charged with five counts of using communication systems for offenses against minors.
Roanoke City Public Schools placed Joyce on leave and cooperated with authorities, assuring parents that student safety is their top priority. The district highlighted its rigorous background checks and ongoing training for staff. During a press conference, the sheriff’s office emphasized that they apprehended Joyce before he could meet the alleged victim.