Rutherford County teacher charged with statutory rape by an authority figure

RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Riverdale High School teacher and girls’ soccer coach is charged with two counts of statutory rape by an authority figure and sexual exploitation of a minor.

According to the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, Nathan Sweet was charged on Monday after an investigation. The 35-year-old environmental science teacher is being held on $75,000 bond at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center.

Rutherford County Schools has been made aware of the arrest of Nathan Sweet, head girls soccer coach and instructional coach at Riverdale High School. Sweet was hired by the district in February 2014. A review of his personnel file shows no prior disciplinary issues. Sweet has been placed on unpaid suspension pending the outcome of the investigation, which is our standard procedure. Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office is investigating and can be contacted with any further questions.

Statement from Rutherford County Schools

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His hearing has been set for August 6. Rutherford County Schools placed Sweet on unpaid suspension while the investigation was being conducted.

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