Glenelg High School teacher arrested for sexual solicitation of a minor, prostitution

GAITHERSBURG, Md. - A teacher at Glenelg High School in Howard County is facing charges of prostitution and sexual solicitation of a minor.

Richard Kemp, an English teacher at the school, was arrested by Montgomery County police on Thursday in a parking lot in Olney.

He is accused of trying to pay for sex from a boy he thought was 16 years old.

"Kemp suggested that they meet and he would give cash to the 16-year-old male, who is actually a Montgomery County police officer," said Montgomery County Police Cpl. Rebecca Innocenti.

In court documents, Kemp allegedly called himself "CaptainOmega" on the phone app Grindr.

The documents say Kemp wrote back and forth with the officer posing as a 16-year-old. They talked about money and the officer said he needed money to buy an iPhone.

Kemp allegedly wrote, "I would def donate to your cause in exchange." The conversation began to discuss sexual activities.

The officer also asked if Kemp was concerned about his age. Kemp allegedly wrote, "Quite the opposite. It's hot. 16 is fine. Legal in MD." But police said it is not.

"It's 18, so solicitation of a minor charge speaks to the fact that this individual is under the age of 18," said Innocenti.

Police said they have reason to worry about other victims. Kemp allegedly admitted to other encounters on the app with younger men. And that is why authorities are really asking for more information on this case. If there are other victims, Kemp could face additional charges.

Kemp was released after paying a $750,000 bond.

At Glenelg High School, administrators notified parents right away.

An online biography from the school says Kemp is married with four children.

Glenelg's principal, Karl Schindler, in an email to parents said they have found a long-term substitute teacher for Kemp's classes.

"School counselors are available to talk privately with students, and I encourage parents and guardians to have open dialog with your child as well," said Schindler.

"The incident remains under investigation by the Montgomery County Police Department, and we are supporting both the Montgomery County and Howard County police departments as the investigation continues. If you have any information that would assist police in their efforts, I encourage you to call Montgomery County police at 301-279-8000."