An assistant principal in Texas has been arrested after he allegedly offered to buy a student alcohol and lingerie in exchange for sex.
The Wylie Police Department said that Zachary Neu was arrested on Thursday, June 4, after police learned he sent inappropriate messages to a former student who had recently graduated, according to a statement shared on the department’s Facebook page.
“The investigation revealed that during conversation, Neu offered to purchase alcohol for the minor and send money for lingerie in exchange for sexual conduct,” the department said.
A search warrant was executed on Neu’s personal devices, and investigators have since identified a second victim.
Neu, 32, worked as an administrator at Wylie East High School in north Texas at the time of the incident. He was immediately fired from the school after his arrest.
“Educators hold positions of authority and are entrusted with tremendous responsibility,” Wylie Independent School District Superintendent Kim Spicer said in a letter to parents following his arrest, which was shared by Wylie News.
She continued, “As adults, they are expected to exercise sound judgment and understand that they are responsible for maintaining appropriate boundaries and relationships with students at all times.”
“Under no circumstances should a district employee engage in private communication with a student through personal social media or other unofficial channels,” Spicer added.
Spicer also thanked the victim and their family for reporting their concerns about Neu to law enforcement. “Speaking up when something feels wrong takes courage, and their actions allowed the matter to be investigated quickly,” she said.
Neu was hired at the school in 2017 as a science teacher. He was promoted to dean of students in July 2024 before he became the assistant principal in January, according to the school district.
The defendant was charged with compelling prostitution for someone under the age of 18 and improper relationship between educator and student. Neu is still in custody as of Friday, June 5.
It is not currently clear if he has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following his arrest. The Wylie Police Department did not immediately respond to Us Weekly’s request for comment regarding the case.
The Wylie Police Department thanked the Wylie ISD in the press release for their “cooperation during this investigation as the safety of our students are the top priority.”
Authorities have asked that anyone with concerns regarding interactions with Neu contact the Wylie Police Department as the investigation into the allegations continues.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
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