Mark Edward Farris Esquivel, 26, of Marshalltown, was arrested Wednesday on allegations of potential exploitation and improper contact with a 17-year-old.

Esquivel was accused of sexual exploitation by a school employee. He is being held in Marshall County Jail awaiting an initial court appearance.

The Marshalltown Police Department received a report on June 24 into the alleged actions. Further investigation revealed that Esquivel was a physical education teacher and coach at Marshalltown High School in the Marshalltown Community School District and that the minor was a student. Esquivel tendered his resignation.

It is alleged that Esquivel engaged in behavior by communicating with a minor for the purpose of soliciting sexual contact and that Esquivel knew the minor was under 18.

This is an active investigation.

Anyone with information about this crime should call the Marshalltown Police Department at 641-754-5725. Tips can be submitted by calling 641-753-1234, or by SMS sending the word “marshal” followed by tip at CRIMES, or online at www.marshallcountycs.com.

All tips are anonymous and could earn up to $ 1,000 in rewards if the tip results in an arrest.