Five Texas Christian School Officials Charged with Failing to Report Alleged Locker Room Sexual Assault

Five officials at a Christian school in Texas have been arrested and charged with failing to report an alleged sexual assault involving a ninth-grade student. The incident occurred during baseball practice at Max H. Christensen Stadium on January 20, according to an arrest affidavit. The victim, who was not named, reported the assault to school officials the following day, but no action was taken.

Midland Police were informed about the possible sexual assault on January 28, and a forensic interview with the victim was scheduled for February 11. The victim described entering the locker room to change when the lights turned off. He heard someone say it was “freshman initiation day” and a 10th grader began hitting him. He said he could hear people screaming as he was hit and was then allegedly sexually assaulted with a baseball bat by another student. The victim and the alleged assailant are on the same baseball team and see each other daily.

The victim informed school officials about the incident, but nothing was done. When police visited the school on February 11, Principal Dana Ellis claimed she was aware of an investigation and that it was documented. However, she stated only Superintendent Jared Lee had access to the files. Lee was notified of the alleged assault on January 21, one day after it occurred, and was directed to conduct an investigation. Under Texas law, the incident should have been reported to law enforcement or another state agency.

Lee refused to provide documentation to police and declined to answer questions on February 14. Later that day, police executed a search warrant at the school. The investigation revealed that the five officials knew about the sexual assault but failed to report it. They were arrested and charged with failure to report with intent to conceal neglect or abuse.

The case highlights the importance of accountability and the need for proper reporting procedures in institutions that serve minors. It also underscores the responsibility of leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and justice in the face of wrongdoing.

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