Honk News (Arlington, TX) – A staff member from a private charter school in Arlington, who was arrested for offenses against students, was also serving as a youth pastor at a nearby church, according to FOX 4 news.
A church in Fort Worth claims it was unaware of any allegations involving a former teacher’s aide from Newman International Academy, who faces charges for having an inappropriate relationship with a student.
A previous coach faces charges related to grooming, while the former principal is accused of trying to conceal allegations.
One of the suspects arrested at Newman has been identified as a youth pastor at Oasis Community Worship Center in Fort Worth, according to FOX 4.
The church has announced the termination of Ruel “JR” Barbee, 55, following his arrest by the police department of Newman International Academy.
One more pastor from the church works at Newman Academy as well. According to sources, FOX 4 reports that she is currently on administrative leave, but there are no criminal charges against her at this moment.
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In addition, two other educators from Newman, who are not among those arrested, are also on administrative leave.
On Thursday, Newman International Academy revealed that its principal, Richard Adams, along with two teachers, Ruel Barbee and 22-year-old Gabrielle Little, were taken into custody as part of a child abuse investigation.
Adams faces accusations of attempting to conceal the allegations. He is up against several charges, which include not reporting abuse, three instances of tampering with evidence, and tampering with a witness.
Adams stepped down during his leave amid an ongoing investigation.
The campus athletic director and an assistant football coach have been put on administrative leave as they are being investigated, though no charges have been filed against them at this moment.