12/12/2025
Former Mesquite Teacher and Coach Arrested on Child Grooming Charge
The Mesquite Police Department has arrested 32-year-old Matthan Timothy Lough, of Crandall, Texas, in connection with allegations of child grooming involving a child at the Christian Center of Mesquite.
Allegations and Investigation
Police say they received a complaint on October 2, 2025, regarding possible child grooming at the church on E. Cartwright Road. An investigation was launched, and detectives identified Lough as the suspect. According to officials, Lough is accused of sexually grooming a child he had access to through church-related activities, not through a school setting.
Employment & Coaching Background
Authorities report that Lough previously worked as a teacher and coach at Pioneer Technology and Arts Academy (PTAA) in Mesquite and also coached club volleyball for a Mesquite-based program. These roles provided him with prior access to children in various extracurricular and athletic environments.
PTAA confirmed publicly that Lough is not employed by the district for the 2025โ2026 school year, and emphasized its hiring protocols and student-safety measures following news of the arrest.
Arrest Details
Mesquite Police obtained an arrest warrant for Child Grooming, a third-degree felony under Texas law. Lough was taken into custody on December 4, 2025, booked into the Mesquite Jail, and released the next day after posting a $10,000 bond.
Investigators are encouraging anyone with additional informationโor anyone who believes there may be other victimsโto contact the Mesquite Police Department.
๐ธMesquite Police Department