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MADISON TWP. — A Madison Junior/Senior High School teacher and coach is under investigation for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with an 18-year-old female student, according to sheriff's deputies.

Softball coach and Madison Education Association President David "Jamie" Wagner, 32, allegedly sent text messages that were sexual in nature to a Madison High School student, according to a Butler County Sheriff's Office report.

Board of Education President Glenn Cappel said that Wagner is on paid leave as of 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, and that the district is looking into the allegations.

No charges have been filed, but the sheriff's office is investigating, said Detective Sgt. Melina Smith.

Deputies reported to Madison Intermediate School on Sunday, May 11, where they spoke with a family friend who reported to police he was told by another female that Wagner allegedly had been sending text messages to the student, according to the report.

The student, who is 18, denied the messages were sexual but acknowledged that Wagner had sent her text messages, according to the report.

If the student and Wagner were found to have had a sexual relationship, it could be a crime because of his status as a teacher and a coach, Smith said. The text messages, if unwanted by the 18-year-old, also could rise to the level of harassment.

Wagner could not be reached for comment.

In his second year as head coach of the Mohawks' softball team, Wagner was not at Wednesday's game. Athletic Director Jeff Smith said Wagner called in sick.

Wagner was elected president by the MEA for the 2006-07 and 2007-08 school years. Vice President Tina Bowling has been elected to the presidency for the next school year.

Staff writers Lauren Pack and John Bombatch contributed to this report.

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