Former Whittier Teacher, 34, Accused Of Having Sex With Underage Student

 WHITTIER (CBSLA.com) — A 34-year-old former high school teacher has been arrested after being accused of having sex with a minor.

John Gilbert Orellano of Cypress recently resigned from California High School, said authorities.

An  initial investigation began after it was alleged the suspect sent illicit text messages to the now 17-year old female.

Further investigation by Sheriff's Special Victims Bureau detectives revealed a sexual relationship had also allegedly occurred between the two.

The suspect and the victim (15-years old at the time they first met) maintained a friendly relationship for two years while he was a history teacher at the school and she was a student.

In January of this year, Orellano began sending illicit text messages to the victim, and shortly thereafter a sexual relationship was allegedly initiated, police said.

Orellano was booked at Norwalk Sheriff's Station. He is being held in lieu of $240,000 bail. He is scheduled to be arraigned Friday in Norwalk Superior Court.

Sheriff's detectives are seeking the public's help in identifying any other possible victims.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Nancy Drake, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Special Victims Bureau at (877) 710-5273.