A Sussex County teacher is facing charges for allegedly filming his female students’ underclothing.

Michael F. Wagner, 39, was charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material and third-degree invasion of privacy.

Wagner taught at Pope John High School in Sparta.

Authorities launched an investigation after a teacher at the school reported that they overheard several eighth-grade students discussing that Wagner filmed them during class.

Sparta police say investigators recovered hundreds of videos and pictures of students allegedly taken by Wagener. Authorities say Wagner positioned an electronic device in such a way as to film the students’ undergarments.

Authorities also say that Wagner possessed or viewed hundreds of items depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of children.

The Diocese issued the following statement, “on Tuesday night, Oct. 11, 2022, the Diocese of Paterson received a report of alleged inappropriate conduct on the part of Michael Wagner, a science teacher at Pope John XXIII Regional High School in Sparta. Mr. Wagner was immediately suspended. In addition, he was informed that he is strictly prohibited from access to or presence at any school property or function. Mr. Wagner was also instructed not to have any contact with his students. On Wednesday morning, Oct. 12, 2022, the Diocese submitted the report to the Sussex County Prosecutor, which is conducting an ongoing investigation. All inquiries regarding the investigation should be directed to the Prosecutor’s Office. Mr. Wagner was in full compliance with all Diocesan protocols, including N.J. State Dept. of Education Fingerprint Background Check. The Diocese of Paterson and Pope John XXIII Regional High School continue to cooperate fully with the Sussex County Prosecutor.”