Overlea High School Employee Donovan Michaud Arrested for Alleged Inappropriate Relationship With Student
Baltimore County, MD – July 3, 2025 — The community surrounding Overlea High School in Baltimore County has been shaken by a deeply troubling incident involving a school employee and a student. Donovan Michaud, a 30-year-old building service worker, was arrested earlier this week and is now facing serious criminal charges stemming from an alleged inappropriate relationship with a student enrolled at the high school.
The arrest followed a thorough investigation launched by the Baltimore County Police Department’s Crimes Against Children Unit (CACU) after school administrators received disturbing reports and immediately contacted authorities. According to investigators, the allegations involved inappropriate communication and conduct between Michaud and a minor student on school grounds and possibly off-campus.
📌 Allegations and Arrest
Baltimore County Police confirmed that Donovan Michaud was taken into custody without incident following the execution of a warrant. He has since been charged with multiple offenses, including:
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Sexual abuse of a minor
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Soliciting a minor
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Engaging in a sexual relationship with a student
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Possession of child pornography (pending forensic review of his devices)
The investigation revealed text messages and digital exchanges between Michaud and the student that authorities described as “highly inappropriate” and indicative of grooming behavior. Investigators are still reviewing Michaud’s electronic devices and communications to determine the full scope of the misconduct.
Michaud has been placed on administrative leave without pay, and school officials confirmed he is barred from returning to campus or having any contact with students. He is currently being held at the Baltimore County Detention Center without bail, and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for next week.
🏫 School and Community Response
In a statement issued by Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS), district leadership emphasized their commitment to student safety and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.
“We are devastated and angered by these allegations. The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. Upon learning of the allegations, immediate steps were taken to remove the individual from school property and to notify the proper authorities,” the statement read.
Overlea High School Principal Dr. Monique Harris addressed families in a letter, stating, “We are working closely with the Baltimore County Police and providing support services for any student or family in need during this difficult time. Please know we remain committed to providing a safe learning environment for all.”
The school has since increased the presence of counselors and crisis support teams on campus to help students cope with the disturbing news. Teachers and staff were briefed in private meetings, while concerned parents gathered outside the school demanding transparency and stronger safeguards for student protection.
🚨 Call for Accountability and Reform
This incident has reignited broader conversations about background checks, reporting protocols, and student protection policies within Baltimore County Public Schools. Community advocates and child safety groups are calling for an independent review of school hiring practices and more rigorous training for all school personnel on recognizing and reporting predatory behavior.
“One violation like this is one too many,” said Tina Caldwell, director of a local child advocacy nonprofit. “Our schools need to be sanctuaries, not places where predators can operate under the radar.”
Several parents at a hastily organized PTA meeting voiced frustration that such misconduct could occur in a place trusted to safeguard their children.
⚖️ Ongoing Investigation
The Crimes Against Children Unit is continuing to investigate the possibility that Michaud may have had similar interactions with other students or minors. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
“We take these cases with the utmost seriousness,” said Detective Jason Fields, spokesperson for CACU. “Our goal is to ensure any victims are protected and supported, and to hold the accused fully accountable under the law.”
Baltimore County Police have set up a dedicated hotline for tips related to the case and have encouraged students and families to report any suspicious behavior—past or present—to school officials or law enforcement.
🙏 Community Healing
As the investigation unfolds, Overlea High School and the wider Baltimore County community are focused on healing and reinforcing protective systems for their students. While trust has been shaken, many believe that transparency, accountability, and proactive prevention efforts can rebuild a safer environment for the future.
Donovan Michaud’s court proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with additional charges possible as investigators comb through digital evidence. In the meantime, BCPS leadership, parents, and the entire school community remain united in ensuring that justice is served and that such a betrayal of trust is never repeated.