First grade teacher in Ooltewah indicted on charges he sexually abused students
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — UPDATE: We know have the teacher's full list of charges and can read more here.
EARLIER: A first grade teacher with Hamilton County Schools has been indicted on charges related to child sexual abuse, and investigators are now working to learn if there are more victims.
Right now, we don't know the specific charges that Duane Sanders of Wallace A. Smith Elementary School faces, as the Hamilton County Grand Jury indictment is sealed, but we're working to learn them.
We're also working to learn more details and get reaction from parents in Ooltewah.
A release from the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) says investigators were told on March 3rd of "an allegation of inappropriate behavior" by Sanders.
During the course of the investigation, several children were identified as potential victims,' the release says.
On Monday, a Hamilton County Grand Jury handed down a multiple-count indictment for Sanders.
Deputies arrested Sanders, and he's been booked at the Hamilton County Jail and Detention Center.
The HCSO takes all allegations of criminal activity seriously, especially when it pertains to our community’s children. In matters involving children and suspected child sexual abuse, we will thoroughly and meticulously investigate every allegation and lead to ensure our community’s youth are protected and those who harm them are held accountable,” said Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett.
Sanders' bond is set at $1,300,000. His first court date is March 29th.
Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp says investigators are now working with several agencies to determine the scope of this case, and how many victims there may be.
If you know a child who may have been a victim, call HCSO right away at 423-622-0222.
Hamilton County Schools says Sanders is now suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation.
Spokesman Steve Doremus says "We recognize this can be triggering to current and past victims of abuse. Counselors will be available to any student, family, and faculty that needs support. If anyone needs any counseling or other support in connection with this matter, please contact our HCS support line, 498-KIDS (498-5437)."
Read the full release from Hamilton County Schools Spokesman Steve Doremus below:
We're working to learn more. Depend on us to bring you updates as we get them.
