A teacher at Berkner High School in Richardson has been arrested and charged with a felony after investigators say he solicited a minor through an online platform.
Michael Ralph Fouse, 41, was taken into custody on Friday August 28 after Richardson Police detectives carried out both an arrest warrant and a search warrant at his home. Authorities reported that he was apprehended without incident.
The investigation into Fouse began on August 20 following a tip submitted to law enforcement by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Detectives with the Richardson Police Department moved quickly to build a case and secured the necessary warrants within days.
Fouse now faces a charge of Online Solicitation of a Minor, which is classified as a third-degree felony under Texas law. The investigation remains active as authorities continue to gather evidence and work alongside school district officials.
Richardson Independent School District confirmed it was notified of the charges early Friday morning and immediately placed Fouse on administrative leave. The district released a statement indicating it would cooperate fully with the Richardson Police Department throughout the criminal investigation.
RISD added that it would take all appropriate and necessary action based on the outcomes of both the criminal and internal investigations. School officials did not provide additional details about how long Fouse had been employed with the district or what subject he taught.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies and national organizations to identify and stop individuals who target minors through digital channels. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regularly works with local police departments across the country to flag suspicious online activity involving children.
