Former Las Cruces Teacher Pleads Guilty to Solicitation

Wyatt Cornelius entered a plea after facing charges related to his employment at Camino Real Middle School.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Former Las Cruces Teacher Pleads Guilty to Solicitation

Former educator and coach Wyatt Cornelius pleaded guilty to child solicitation and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The plea comes following his arrest in April regarding an investigation into his conduct at Camino Real Middle School.

Why it matters

The case highlights the legal consequences for staff members who engage in illicit behavior with students. Las Cruces Public Schools terminated the former coach earlier this year following his initial arrest.

Wyatt Cornelius remains held at the Dona Ana County Detention Center following his guilty plea. Judge Richard M. Jacquez presided over the hearing that addressed charges involving two teenage victims.

The players

Wyatt Cornelius

He is a former teacher and coach who was employed by Las Cruces Public Schools from 2006 until 2026.

Richard M. Jacquez

He is the judge presiding over the criminal proceedings for this case.

Las Cruces Public Schools

This is the regional school district that employed the defendant for nearly two decades.

Camino Real Middle School

This local middle school served as the place of employment for the defendant.

Dona Ana County Detention Center

This facility is currently housing the defendant while he awaits further sentencing.

The details

A teenage student initially reported an improper relationship, which led to an investigation into Cornelius, who taught and coached at Camino Real Middle School. Additional charges were filed in July 2026 after a second teenage victim came forward regarding abuse occurring between September 2025 and February 2026.

July 1, 2006: Wyatt Cornelius began employment at Las Cruces Public Schools.
September 2025 - February 2026: Period of abuse reported by a second victim.
April 22, 2026: Authorities arrested Wyatt Cornelius.
May 22, 2026: Las Cruces Public Schools terminated Wyatt Cornelius.
October 19, 2026: Wyatt Cornelius entered a guilty plea.

Legal Context

The legal resolution follows established New Mexico statutes regarding child solicitation and sexual contact for educators. This case follows a pattern of recent oversight in regional school districts regarding the investigation of staff misconduct.

The guilty plea confirms the conclusion of the criminal phase regarding the defendant's conduct within local middle schools. Residents are encouraged to monitor future court announcements regarding sentencing for updates on this case.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of reporting concerns regarding educator behavior to school and law enforcement officials. Early reporting is essential for identifying potential patterns of abuse and ensuring student safety.