WALDO — Rumor that a Waldo County Technical Center teacher was involved in a sexual relationship with student from RSU 20 has led to the arrest of a Winslow man.

Waldo County Chief Deputy Jeff Trafton said Monday that Michael Gagnon, 46, was arrested and charged with gross sexual assault Class C after allegedly admitting to being involved in a physical relationship with a student during an interview with Waldo County Detective Gerald Lincoln.

The investigation came as a result of a request by RSU 3 Superintendent Heather Perry to look into the rumor. Perry passed the information on to School Resource Officer Nick Oettinger, who worked with Lincoln and conducted several interviews April 4. Those interviews led the officers to speak with Gagnon, at which time he allegedly admitted his involvement.

Trafton said it is believed the encounters between Gagnon, who is married, and the student took place off campus.

Gagnon teaches automotive technology at the school, located on Waterville Road in Waldo. Trafton said Gagnon is also a softball coach at Mt. View High School.

“Many times in cases like these, there are other victims out there and if there are any other victims of Gagnon’s, we would like them to come forward and tell us because there are services available to help them,” said Trafton Monday morning.

Gagnon remains in custody at Waldo County jail in Belfast pending his arraignment in Belfast District court later today, April 7, when the judge will set his bail.

Editorial Director Holly S. Edwards can be reached at hollyedwards@penbaypilot.com or 706-6655.