PHIL CAMPBELL, Ala. – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office said a Phil Campbell High School Teacher was arrested late Sunday night.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, they were called to a complaint of Jerry Jordan Benford, 28, having sexual relations with a 17-year-old student.

Benford was arrested and booked into the Franklin County Jail just after 11:30 p.m.

He was charged with sexual contact by a school employee and was being held without bond.

The school released a statement following the arrest stating that Benford had been placed on administrative leave.

“Mr. Benford was placed on leave by the Franklin County Board of Education during a special called board meeting this morning. I cannot comment on personnel issues beyond that.“

Superintendent Greg Hamilton.