US Attorney's Office: Philadelphia Middle School Teacher Sexually Coerced 12-Year-Old Boy

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A Philadelphia middle school teacher has been arrested and charged for allegedly sexually coercing a 12-year-old boy. The U.S. Attorney's Office says 31-year-old Christopher O'Sullivan, of Philadelphia, coerced the young boy to take a sexually explicit photograph and text it to him.

Officials also say O'Sullivan discussed sexual activity with the boy over texts.

The alleged incidents happened between June 21 and July 23. O'Sullivan was arrested on Aug. 30 in Plattsburgh, New York, and has been detained since.

"The defendant's alleged abuse of his position of trust in our community for his perverse gratification is over," said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Williams. "Child sexual exploitation is appallingly pervasive, exacerbated by the easy availability of digital media and communications, and it demands an aggressive response."

O'Sullivan has been charged with manufacturing child pornography and using a facility of interstate commerce to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity.

Belmont Charger School released a statement on O'Sullivan's arrest:

"Belmont Charter School's highest priority is the safety and wellbeing of our students. Once we were made aware of the shocking allegations against Mr. O'Sullivan we terminated him immediately and banned him from our school premises. Additionally, we notified our school community. We have and will continue to fully cooperate with the FBI, Philadelphia Police and Child Protective Services on this very sad situation."

O'Sullivan faces between 15 to life in prison if convicted, and a $500,000 fine.