Maui High teacher charged with sexual exploitation of a minor

A Maui High School teacher has been charged with sexual exploitation of a minor in Washington state, according to authorities in Washington and Oregon.

On May 27, police in Portland, Oregon arrested 60-year-old Thomas T. Takeuchi at an Oregon airport on a warrant.

Takeuchi has taught social studies at Maui High School since 1994, and is also a football referee.

Maui Complex Superintendent Bruce Anderson said an investigation is being conducted.

"Our primary concern is that our students are safe," said Anderson.  "We take allegations like this very seriously and we will thoroughly investigate it and, within the department's rules, we'll take appropriate action."

Maui High School is currently on summer break.  The 2012 school year resumes at the end of July.