A Palm Beach County science teacher has been arrested after allegations emerged that he used Google Docs to groom an underage student for sexual crimes. Elias Gordon Farley, 26, a former instructor at the Donna Klein Jewish Academy in Boca Raton, Florida, is facing serious felony charges. His arrest took place after the student disclosed details of the alleged abuse on November 18.
Details of the Allegations
According to an arrest affidavit, the relationship between Farley and the student began with casual conversations during the previous school year. The situation escalated over the summer, when Farley allegedly set up a shared Google Doc. This document allowed them to exchange messages, which eventually included explicit content and plans for private meetings.
- Relationship began: Previous school year
- Google Doc created: Summer
- Allegations reported: November 18
Physical Encounters
Detectives reported that the illicit relationship became physical in mid-September. The student described encounters occurring in Farley’s office, where inappropriate touching took place. These encounters reportedly continued for several weeks in both his office and a classroom.
By late September and into October, the student testified that they engaged in various sexual activities, including oral sex and intercourse, within the classroom. She later recounted visiting Farley’s apartment in early November, where further sexual encounters occurred.
Investigation Findings
Following the student’s report, authorities executed a search warrant at Farley’s residence. They discovered bedding and condom wrappers that matched the student’s descriptions. Surveillance footage corroborated her claims, showing them entering his office and a classroom together on November 7.
School Response and Legal Proceedings
The allegations surfaced after the student confided in an art teacher on November 14, revealing visible bruises and bite marks. School administrators acted quickly, suspending Farley and contacting child welfare agencies the day after the report.
- Teacher’s suspension: November 15
- Farley’s arrest: December 4
- Bond set at: $500,000
Farley was charged with unlawful sexual activity with a minor and offenses against a student by an authority figure. He chose not to provide a statement to detectives after being informed of his rights.
School’s Statement
In a statement, Donna Klein Jewish Academy expressed its commitment to fully cooperating with the investigation. The school emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive environment for students and staff during this challenging time. Farley is no longer employed at the institution, and the investigation continues.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information related to this case to contact the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office at 561-688-3000.
