FOREST, Miss. (WJTV) – An assistant baseball coach at the Forest Municipal School District was arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to alleged inappropriate conduct with a minor student.

Forest police said the charges stem from an investigation into reports of sexual misconduct, grooming, and exploitation.

According to investigators, Austin Taylor was charged with sexual battery, fondling or gratification, contributing to the delinquency or neglect of a minor, position of authority enhancement, grooming, enticement of a child to meet for sexual purposes, adultery and fornication between teacher and pupil, computer luring of persons under 18 for sexual purposes, and molesting/touching a child for lustful purposes.

Police said the crimes occurred on multiple occasions. They said the information came to light through reports from school officials and digital evidence.

“This is a very disturbing case that underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting our children in our schools. We are and continue to work closely with the district attorney’s office to ensure that the prosecution is thorough,” said Forest Police Chief Steven Bell.

Anyone with additional information about the case can contact the Forest Police Department at (601-469-4141).