The suspect is a science teacher at Paulsboro High School.
Police say 47-year-old Michael Furey allegedly conducted a six-month dialog on MySpace with the 17-year-old student while he posed as a 16-year-old. Police say the conversation became sexual in nature.
Officials say they arranged to meet on June 3rd and the student immediately recognized Furey as her teacher.
After a brief conversation, she left and reported the encounter to her mother, who contacted the Paulsboro Police Department.
Furey, a father of four who taught biology and anatomy, was arrested at Paulsboro High School. He then posted a $50,000 cash bail.
Furey was suspended with pay by the Paulsboro School District pending further investigation and court proceedings.
There was no answer when Action News went to Furey's home on Friday.
Some students were shocked at this news.
"He was always cool with us, bringing in new animals, like snakes and stuff. He was a really good teacher," said student Joey Parks.
Other students said they noticed Furey seemed to favor girls over boys in class.
"It seemed like he was trying to be like us," said student Jessica Williams. "Trying to be 'down' with the kids, but with the girls."
Furey's computer was seized by authorities as this investigation continues.
