A Columbus City Schools elementary teacher was one on 12 people arrested Friday in a prostitution sting operation in Fairfield County.
A spokesperson for Columbus City Schools said Andre Williams, a 5th grade teacher at Livingston Elementary School, has been removed from the classroom pending the outcome of the police investigation.
The Fairfield County Sheriff's Office posted information about the arrests on social media on Monday afternoon.
The engagement in sexual activity for hire charge for Williams and the 11 other people who were arrested is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1,500.
Fairfield County Sheriff Alex Lape said in a statement the operation was to combat illegal activity and human trafficking.
"We want to send a clear message that those seeking to exploit others through prostitution will be held accountable. These types of crimes contribute to a wider network of criminal activity and our office remains committed to proactive enforcement," Lape said.
The statement said undercover deputies posed as individuals offering prostitution services in the sting.
The statement also said the suspects contacted the undercover officers to meet at a designated location. After the suspects arrived and their intention to solicit prostitution was confirmed, they were arrested.
