Former Mesquite teacher arrested on child grooming charge

Former Teacher Arrested in Mesquite Child Grooming Case

On October 2, Mesquite police received a report of an alleged child grooming case at the Christian Center of Mesquite on E. Cartwright Road in Mesquite, Texas. Following this report, officers began an investigation into the allegation.

Through their investigation, Mesquite police identified the suspect as 32-year-old Matthan Lough of Crandall, Texas. Police obtained a warrant for Lough’s arrest and subsequently took him into custody. Authorities have charged him with child grooming.

Locations and Prior Roles of the Suspect

Investigators determined that Lough previously had access to children in multiple roles in Mesquite. Police stated that he had been employed as a teacher and coach at Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy in Mesquite. They also reported that he served as a club volleyball coach for a team based out of Mesquite.

The alleged child grooming incident that prompted the October 2 report was connected to the Christian Center of Mesquite on E. Cartwright Road. Police did not provide additional details about the specific conduct in that case within the available information.

Statement from Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy

Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy (PTAA) issued a statement addressing Lough’s connection to the school. The academy stated that the individual identified as Matthan Lough is not an employee of PTAA and has not been employed by PTAA during the 2025–2026 school year.

In the same statement, PTAA said it maintains strict hiring and safety practices, including full background checks for all staff, contractors, and volunteers. The academy noted that the matter is part of an active police investigation and directed all questions to the Mesquite Police Department. PTAA stated it would not comment further at this time.

Ongoing Investigation and Contact Information

Mesquite police have asked anyone with information related to the case to contact the department at 972-216-6701. The investigation into the alleged child grooming at the Christian Center of Mesquite remains active according to the information released by police.