Carroll County Teacher Arrested After Student Reports Inappropriate Conduct

CARROLL COUNTY, GA – The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 54-year-old Villa Rica Middle School teacher Rico Thompson after a student reported an inappropriate act that allegedly occurred on campus on December 4, 2025.

The report was immediately relayed to the School Resource Officer assigned to the campus, triggering a coordinated investigation by the Sheriff’s Office. Detectives worked alongside school officials to ensure student safety while gathering evidence.

Following the investigation, deputies obtained warrants for Thompson on multiple charges, including Child Molestation, Enticing a Child for Indecent Purposes, Sexual Exploitation of Children, and Sexual Assault by Persons with Supervisory or Disciplinary Authority.

Superintendent Scott Cowart thanked deputies for their immediate response, noting the strong partnership between the school district and local law enforcement. He emphasized that the presence of trained School Resource Officers remains essential for quick intervention and maintaining safe learning environments.

The investigation is still active. Anyone with information related to Thompson or this case is asked to contact Investigator Michael Rae at mrae@carrollsheriffga.gov or 770-830-5916 ext. 2278.