Del. school official charged with having sex with student

Woodbridge High School’s former athletic director is facing charges of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old female student.

Delaware State Police have arrested Derek J. Lofland, 32, of Greenwood on 23 charges, including fourth-degree rape, sexual solicitation of a child under 18 and unlawful sexual contact.

Investigators say the relationship began last April and escalated when the victim would visit Lofland at his office at Woodbridge High and assist him with his duties.

During the course of the relationship Lofland is alleged to have engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with the victim while on school grounds as well as his Greenwood residence. Lofland is also alleged to have texted the victim explicit sexual messages.

Police arrested Lofland at his home Tuesday and booked him into Sussex Correctional Institute on $86,000 secured bond.