The New Orleans Police Department today reported the arrest of a man who was a teacher at several area schools.
The 38-year-old educator allegedly raped and trafficked children for sex.
"The NOPD, along with assistance from U.S. Marshals Task Force, arrested Joshua 'Josh' Kagler, (Black male, DOB:12/05/1986) this morning on multiple felony charges related to the sexual exploitation of minors," according to a news release.
Cops say it was a cold case, but did not say when the alleged crimes occurred.
"Through investigation, the NOPD's Special Victims Divisions' Child Abuse Cold Case Unit identified Kagler as the alleged perpetrator in multiple crimes relating to juveniles."
Kagler is charged with 12 felonies:
5 counts of trafficking of children for sexual purposes
5 counts of indecent behavior with juveniles
1 count of third degree rape
1 count of sexual battery
NOPD says Kagler taught at New Orleans schools including George Washington Carver, McDonough 35, and Warren Easton.
Posts from NOLA Public Schools say he is a Grammy winning choir teacher. Kagler was at Warren Easton as recently as this past school year.
Detectives are working to gather additional evidence and determine if there are other victims.
"The NOPD urges any other potential victims to come forward. We understand this may be difficult, but your safety and privacy are our top priority. You are not alone. To report information directly, please contact the NOPD Sex Crimes Unit at (504) 658-5523. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111 or online at www.crimestoppersgno.org."
Officials say there is also a special app to report these kinds of crimes.
"The Crimestoppers Safe Schools Louisiana App allows students and community members to anonymously report concerns by selecting their school, describing the issue, and even uploading photos or screenshots from social media—no names or phone numbers are required."