Former South Allegheny Teacher Accused Of Harassing 2nd Student

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – A former teacher at South Allegheny Middle School is facing new charges after allegedly harassing a 17-year-old student.

Cole McLaughlin was arraigned in April after police say he sent inappropriate text messages to a 12-year-old student.

Now he's accused of contacting a 17-year-old student and asking her out.

Officials say he also sent partially nude photos of himself to the student.

While working as an aide at the high school, the student claims McLaughlin tried to hug her and when students were away on a field trip, pulled her sweatpants down and groped her in a classroom.

"It's very disturbing because when, you know, you have kids that go to the school, you trust these teachers to look after your kids," said parent Michael Conley.

The student came forward after McLaughlin was charged with corrupting a minor last month.
 
McLaughlin was hired by the district just last year. He was a Social Studies teacher.

In last month's incident, police say the text messages were discovered by the 12-year-old's father.

In one of the alleged texting exchanges, the criminal complaint reports, McLaughlin wrote, "I love everything. I just want you to be close to me. So badly. I love you so much…"

The South Allegheny School District had no comment, but says McLaughlin is no longer with the district. McLaughlin is currently free on bond.

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