A sixth-grade teacher in Phoenix has been arrested for indecent exposure after allegedly urinating in a can in front of his students.
Curt Hinton, 52, who taught English at Wilson Elementary School, was charged with four counts of indecent exposure after the March 18 incident.
Students Report Shocking Incident
Four students—a 12-year-old boy and three 11-year-old girls—reported the incident to the school principal. They claimed to have heard a zip and the sound of running water, then saw Hinton exposing himself while urinating at his desk.
Hinton later admitted to police that he relieved himself in a can but insisted he covered himself with his hand. However, detectives noted that his desk was not fully enclosed, making it visible to students.
Hinton’s Explanation: “A Poor Use of Judgment”
Hinton, a former Army veteran, explained that he did not know how to contact another teacher to watch his class. He said he reverted to military habits, where soldiers relieve themselves without leaving their post.
He repeatedly admitted to police that the incident was a mistake and poor judgment.
School and Legal Actions
Wilson Elementary placed Hinton on administrative leave, later confirming that he had resigned. The district emphasized that teachers are expected to arrange for classroom coverage when stepping away.
Hinton was booked into jail and given a $10,000 secured bond. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 28 in Maricopa County Superior Court.