School officials: Inappropriate behavior reported

By KELLI WRIGHT/ KELLI.WRIGHT@DEMOPOLISTIMES.COM

DEMOPOLIS &8212; Police are investigating a Demopolis High School faculty and athletic department member after alleged inappropriate behavior with a DHS student was reported. Sgt. Tim Soronen with the Demopolis Police Department confirmed Tuesday there is an ongoing investigation but no arrests had been made.

The investigation began Friday afternoon when school officials were informed about a possible incident involving the faculty member and the student. DHS principal Dr. Isaac Espy said at 1 p.m. he was informed of evidence of an inappropriate relationship between the faculty member and student and investigated the matter immediately by reviewing school surveillance tapes, interviewing school personnel and also speaking with the victim.

After this preliminary investigation Espy said he felt there was a &8220;high probability&8221; the alleged actions had taken place and proceeded to meet with Demopolis City Schools Superintendent Dr. Wayne Vickers later that afternoon. During the meeting the school officials met with the faculty member in question and he tendered his resignation to both of them.

The board&8217;s next meeting is set for March 24, where Espy said some action is expected to be taken on the matter.

Given the serious nature of the allegations, Espy and Vickers said it was imperative to act on them in a prompt and professional manner.

The Department of Human Resources is also investigating the allegations due to the fact the alleged events involved a minor. Espy said appropriate legal action on DHR&8217;s part was taken Monday.

As for the vacancy in the faculty, Espy said there is already a certified teacher set to step in on Monday following Spring Break. Vickers said the teacher is a retired teacher and will be on board for the remaining nine weeks of school.