SEFFNER, Fla. (WFLA) — Authorities arrested a substitute teacher on Tuesday after allegations surfaced that he showed inappropriate sexual images to students at Jennings Middle School.
Chase Rush, 22, was leading a 7th grade class on December 9, 2024, when he instructed the students to activate the AirDrop feature on their Apple devices, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. This feature enables the wireless transfer of files to nearby devices.
Investigators reported that four students received images containing nudity and bestiality on their iPhones. Additionally, seven other students were present around Rush when he displayed the images.
Rush was interviewed by detectives and admitted to showing the same content to one of his relatives who was just 12 years old at the time, according to authorities.
The substitute teacher now faces close to two dozen charges related to the allegations against him. Those charges include the following:
- Film, Distribute, or Possess Image or Video of Sexual Activity with an Animal (x9)
- Sell or Distribute Obscene Material to a Minor (x8)
- Transmission of Harmful Material to Minor (x4)
- Unlawful Use of Two-Way Communications Device
“It’s revolting to think that someone trusted to educate and guide our children could act in such a predatory and disgraceful manner,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “This man used his role as a teacher to prey on kids. He had every opportunity to be a positive influence; instead, he chose to become a predator.”
Rush was employed by Kelly Education when the incident took place and was never an employee of Hillsborough County Public Schools, officials said.
