Middle school teacher accused of sending sexually explicit messages to 8th-grade student

A middle school teacher in Wilmington Manor, Delaware, has been arrested for allegedly sending sexually explicit messages to an 8th-grade student. Ricardo Vila, 39, a physical education teacher at George Read Middle School, was taken into custody on Monday and faces 17 charges, including Sexual Solicitation of a Child and Sexual Abuse of a Child by a Person in a Position of Trust, according to the Delaware Attorney General's Office.

The investigation began when the principal of George Read Middle School reported the incident to the police on March 17. Court documents reveal that the inappropriate communications started on March 12 and escalated over several days, primarily via text message and Instagram. Vila allegedly solicited sexually explicit photos from the student, which they did not provide, while he sent obscene images of himself.

Attorney General Kathy Jennings expressed concern, emphasizing that parents deserve to feel their children are safe at school. She condemned the violation of trust inherent in such cases, especially when the abuser is in a position of authority over the victim. Vila was also noted to have been an assistant baseball coach at William Penn High School.

Following the incident, Principal Nick Wolfe reassured families through a communication that the Colonial School District was aware of the situation and that appropriate measures were in place. He stated that the safety of all students is a top priority and that the school is committed to supporting its students during this time.

Vila remains in custody, with a bail set at $600,000, and there is currently no information suggesting additional victims. Authorities are urging anyone with related information to contact Detective Kevin Kelleher to assist in the investigation.