The band director at Destrehan High School was arrested Tuesday on charges of having sex with a student at his home when the girl was only 16 years old.

St. Charles Parish deputies said that an investigation into 39-year-old Byron Toups began last summer with accusations from another student.

“A 17-year-old came forward and disclosed to the sheriff’s office that at the age of 16, she did have sex with Mr. Toups,” said Captain Patrick Yoes of the Sheriff’s Office. “During the summer, a 17-year-old alleged that Mr. Toups tried to kiss her.”

In addition to the arrest, Eyewitness News has learned that Toups is the subject of a federal sexual harassment lawsuit filed on behalf of two girls. One of the girls claims that Toups had consensual sex with her when she was 18. The other girl says Toups made lewd comments to her and tried to kiss her at band camp last summer.

Neighbors, who did not wish to go on camera, told Eyewitness News that Toups is a divorced father of two small children.

Police have asked anyone with information on the two incidents or other activities involving Toups to call 985-783-1135.

A representative with the St. Charles Parish Public School System issued the following statement Tuesday: