DETROIT – A Detroit teacher and track coach is facing criminal sexual conduct charges after prosecutors say he groomed a cognitively delayed student under the guise of being a chiropractor.
Nathan Tedford, 54, appeared in court looking visibly angry and disappointed as a judge set his bond at $30,000 cash. He is charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving coercion, because of the alleged victim’s age.
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“This is a clear case of a teacher grooming a young man to touch him allegedly for sexual gratification,” prosecutors said during the arraignment.
Tedford, a teacher at East English Village Preparatory Academy, allegedly lured an 18-year-old student to his home, claiming he could provide chiropractic treatment. Prosecutors said the teen went along with it because he was in fear.
“Unfortunately, this young man felt he couldn’t say anything because he was afraid he wasn’t going to be taken home,” the prosecutor added.
Police said the student confided in his girlfriend and mother, prompting a criminal investigation. During a police interview, Tedford reportedly admitted to touching the student.
“Mr. Tedford did admit to police he was touching his -- I believe -- his thigh,” the prosecutor said.
Detroit Public Schools Community District confirmed that Tedford was initially placed on paid leave, but following the filing of charges, he is now on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Tedford is scheduled to return to court on June 18, 2025.
While Detroit police told Local 4 that no additional victims are known at this time, they are urging parents to talk with their children.
If anyone has concerns or information about Nathan Tedford, they are asked to contact the Detroit Police Department’s Special Victims Unit at 313-596-1950.
The investigation remains ongoing.