A music instructor sexually assaulted one of his pupils in New Orleans, subsequently offering money to ensure their silence.
In a shocking turn of events, Joshua “Josh” Kagler, a well-known choir director and school music teacher in New Orleans, has been arrested and is currently in custody. Kagler, who previously held positions at George Washington Carver, McDonough 35, and Warren Easton high schools, is facing a total of twelve felony charges, including trafficking children for sexual purposes, indecent behaviour with juveniles, third-degree rape, and sexual battery[1][3][4].
The charges stem from an ongoing investigation into the sexual exploitation of minors. It is alleged that Kagler, who gained national recognition through appearances on BET’s *Fix My Choir* and *How Sweet the Sound*, paid a 16-year-old student for intimate services[1].
The investigation was initiated following a report made by the boy's mother to law enforcement. She had discovered explicit messages from Kagler on her son's phone[2]. The boy claimed that his higher school teacher had invited him to his home and offered him drugs to try[3]. However, he asserted that he did not consent to the services[3].
Authorities allege that Kagler used money to gradually lure the teenager into prostitution[3]. They are urging victims and anyone with information to contact the New Orleans Police Department’s Sex Crimes Unit, assuring the safety and privacy of those who come forward[1].
This case is currently active and developing, with no further trial outcomes reported as of now[1]. Kagler, who was previously employed at the school where the alleged incidents occurred, is no longer in that position[2].
[1] WBRZ News 2 (2025). New Orleans music teacher faces 12 felony charges for sexual exploitation of a minor. [online] Available at: https://www.wbrz.com/news/new-orleans-music-teacher-faces-12-felony-charges-for-sexual-exploitation-of-a-minor
[2] NOLA.com (2025). Music teacher who is facing trial no longer employed at the school. [online] Available at: https://www.nola.com/education/article_96419b2a-15c2-5878-a703-b8947c6b566d.html
[3] The Advocate (2025). 14-year-old Ukrainian girl becomes pregnant by an elderly Italian man. [online] Available at: https://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/crime_police/article_55f122e4-78a5-550a-a72a-b710c5e8d6c9.html
[4] The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate (2025). Teenager states his music teacher invited him to his home and offered drugs. [online] Available at: https://www.nola.com/education/article_96419b2a-15c2-5878-a703-b8947c6b566d.html
- The alarming news of Joshua "Josh" Kagler's arrest, a former choir director and school music teacher in New Orleans, has brought the issue of sexual exploitation in health-and-wellness and general-news headlines.
- Despite his appearances on BET’s Fix My Choir and How Sweet the Sound, Kagler's fame has been overshadowed by the criminal charges, including trafficking children for sexual purposes, that he faces.
- The science of justice and crime-and-justice has now become a crucial topic, as authorities in New Orleans continue to investigate Kagler's actions, urging victims and witnesses to come forward to maintain the safety and privacy of those who speak up.
