AbuseGuardian.com reports on the arrest of a former Christian school teacher who is being charged with first-degree sexual assault and distributing, possessing, or viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.
The 34-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, February 27th, 2016 after an investigation was launched by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes Division. The authorities were informed of an inappropriate relationship between the teacher and a 16-year-old student and began investigating nude photos and sexually explicit messages between the two. When the teen was interviewed, she stated that she was in an exclusive relationship with the teacher, had sent the nude photos to him, and had consented to sexual intercourse with him on several occasions. The teacher admitted to authorities in an interview to having consensual intercourse with the teen and sending nude photos to her.
After the arrest, the former teacher was fired on the same day from his position teaching 9th grade physical science and 10th grade world history. He had also coached track and had been employed at Life Way Christian School since 2013. His bail has been set at $50,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court on April 11th, 2016. The school community was shocked by the news and administrator Luke Browers stated: “Our first priority is the safety of our students and families, so it is our desire God will unify the school through this tough time, and we trust Him to do that.” He also stated that all employees go through a background check prior to employment, and all references are checked during this time as well. The administrator has also released a statement thanking the authorities for handling the situation quickly.
Attorney Brian Kent and his firm, Laffey Bucci & Kent sponsor the online resource AbuseGuardian.com. The firm understands the devastation that sexual abuse can cause victims and their families. Kent comments on the teacher’s arrest, stating: “Minors are some of our society’s most vulnerable members, and we have an obligation to stand up for these young citizens. While every person is innocent until proven guilty, it is not uncommon for abusers to be drawn to positions of authority, such as teachers.” Kent and his firm are currently representing multiple victims in claims of sexual assault.
To ask questions, or obtain more information on potential sexual assault claims, please contact Brian Kent, Esq. at 866-577-2786.
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Contact AbuseGuardian.com:
Brian Kent
(866) 577-2786
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