Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan | Department of Justice
A former substitute teacher has pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of minors and receipt of child pornography, United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. for the Eastern District of Michigan announced on Apr. 8.
The case involves Timothy Higle, age 34 and formerly of Clawson, Michigan, who admitted to soliciting nude images and sexually explicit videos from minors through Snapchat. Authorities said that Higle paid the victims using Cashapp and Venmo in exchange for the material. In one instance, he provided a minor with a vape pen and marijuana cartridge. The victims were between 14 and 17 years old at the time of the incidents.
Law enforcement became aware of Higle’s actions after one victim contacted the Michigan State Police in August 2024. Investigators have not found evidence that Higle engaged in this conduct while working as a teacher.
Gorgon said, “This is disgusting behavior for anyone. But we entrust teachers with our children, so it is especially alarming when one of them preys on children.”
Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyan from the Federal Bureau of Investigation Detroit Field Office said, “The defendant had a choice, and he chose to exploit children and betray public trust.” Runyan also thanked those who reported the crime: “We are grateful for the bravery of the individual who came forward and reported this to our law enforcement partners at the Michigan State Police. Our dedicated team from the FBI Oakland County Resident Agency worked diligently to investigate this case, and this guilty plea represents an important step toward accountability.”
Higle faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison when sentenced on August 11, 2026.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or knows someone who may be should contact the FBI at (313) 965-2323.
