Nichole Lara, Forest Mississippi Volunteer Color Guard Instructor, Arrested for Sending Nude Photos to Male Student She Met at Band Camp

Nichole Lara, a 22-year-old volunteer color guard instructor with the Forest Mississippi School District, has been arrested after allegedly sending nude photos and sexually explicit messages to a male student she met during a summer band camp.

According to the Forest Police Department, the teenage victim came forward and reported that Lara contacted him through Snapchat, where the conversations escalated into inappropriate messages and ultimately nude images. Detectives say the misconduct began in July during band camp, where Lara first met the student.

Lara was arrested on November 6 and charged with sexual battery, grooming, and child exploitation. The charges reflect the severity of the allegations, which investigators say involved intentional attempts to manipulate and engage the student in sexual activity.

Forest Police Chief Steven Bell emphasized the department’s commitment to student safety, stating:
“The Forest Police Department is committed to protecting students and holding all parties accountable.”

As a volunteer color guard instructor, Lara’s responsibilities would typically include training students, guiding routines, and working closely with youth in a hands-on instructional environment — a role that requires trust and strict professional boundaries. Authorities say those boundaries were violated.

The Forest Police Department is working alongside the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) and additional agencies as the investigation continues. Parents or community members with information have been encouraged to contact Forest Police at 601-469-4141.

The case has raised concerns within the school district and community about volunteer oversight, youth protection protocols, and the importance of reporting inappropriate behavior promptly.