Mpls. Teacher Charged With Stalking Student, Seeking Sexual Relationship

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A 46-year-old Minneapolis teacher is accused of sending sexual text messages to an underage student and seeking a sexual relationship, the Hennepin County Attorney's Office announced Wednesday.

Dan Arlen Anderson of Oakdale now faces charges of third-degree attempted criminal sexual conduct and stalking of a victim under 18 years of age, which are both felonies, in connection to the May 2014 incident.

According to the criminal complaint, on May 17, a Minneapolis South High School student reported to police that Anderson – a social studies teacher – was trying to get her to have sex with him. The next day, an investigator talked with Anderson, who admitted to asking for the student's phone number and sending her a dozen text messages sexual in nature. Two text messages included pictures of his penis.

Police also examined the student's phone and recovered the incriminating texts and photos sent by Anderson.

"It is very disappointing that a very few individuals use their position of authority to prey on the young people they are supposed to develop into intelligent adults and productive citizens," Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said when announcing the charges. "I hope this prosecution sends a clear message to cut out this totally inappropriate behavior."

If convicted, Anderson could face up to 15 years in prison for the attempted criminal sexual conduct charge and up to five years in prison for the stalking charge.