Broward music teacher had ‘romantic relationship’ with student, authorities say
A South Plantation High School music teacher was jailed Thursday for a having a “romantic relationship” with a student, police allege.
Christopher George Santanelli, 42, is being held in the Broward County Main Jail on a charge of an authority figure soliciting or engaging in a romantic relationship with a student, jail records show. He was booked into the jail on Thursday.
On Dec. 22, Plantation police were alerted that Santanelli had a “relationship” with an “adult student,” the department posted on X. Authorities did not specify the student's age.
The student told officers that Santanelli would give them gifts, and they would exchange text messages with the teacher. They went on to say they were hugged and kissed by Santanelli.
Santanelli’s LinkedIn profile identifies him as the choral director at South Plantation High, a job that he has held since July 2017. Before that, he worked for two churches and at Lyons Creek Middle School in positions related to teaching music.
WTVJ-NBC 6 News reported an email was sent to parents from South Plantation High Principal Alexandra Ries announcing the arrest.
“This morning, Thursday, January 8th, prior to the start of classes, one of our teachers was arrested by the Plantation Police Department. Due to the ongoing case, I am not able to provide additional details. Please know the individual has been reassigned away from our school and students pending the outcome of the matter,” the message said. “Providing our students with high-quality learning opportunities in a safe, secure environment is always our priority. We appreciate your continued support.”
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