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Principal Brent Cooper Arrested on Improper Sexual Contact Charges

By Drooid · Oct 31, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

Principal Joseph “Brent” Cooper was arrested on two counts of improper sexual contact.
The district placed Cooper on administrative leave pending the investigation.
Dade County deputies increased presence at the school, saying there is no threat to students or staff.
Superintendent Josh Ingle said the investigation is active and student safety remains the highest priority.
Two assistant principals will manage daily operations with additional district leadership support.

History

After the Boston Globe’s 2002 Spotlight series exposed abuse in the Archdiocese of Boston—prompting Cardinal Bernard Law’s resignation and an $85 million settlement for 552 victims—the US Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted a zero-tolerance charter. Those reforms raised nationwide accountability, leading Dade County Public Schools to place Principal Joseph “Brent” Cooper on leave and assign deputies while tightening student-safety protocols.

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After the Boston Globe’s 2002 Spotlight series exposed abuse in the Archdiocese of Boston—prompting Cardinal Bernard Law’s resignation and an $85 million settlement for 552 victims—the US Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted a zero-tolerance charter. Those reforms raised nationwide accountability, leading Dade County Public Schools to place Principal Joseph “Brent” Cooper on leave and assign deputies while tightening student-safety protocols.

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