A former “Teacher of the Year” is at risk of being fired after a Texas educator is accused of sexually assaulting female students over a period of years, police said.
Brandin Hargrove, 43, is a teacher at Brazoswood High School in Clute, Texas.
Hargrove was arrested on December 21, 2023. She was charged with six counts of sexual assault of a child, four counts of indecency with a child by contact, and two counts of indecency with a child by exposure.
Hargrove was booked into the Brazoria County Jail and released several hours later after posting $240,000 bail.
The woman, now in her 30s, accused Hargrove of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. According to the criminal complaint, the alleged victim told police that she had an “ongoing relationship” with the teacher from ages 15 to 17.
Hargrove, previously named Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the Month, is accused of having an off-campus sexual relationship with a female student over a two-year period. Mr. Hargrove was approximately 27 years old at the time of the charges.
“Unfortunately, we're seeing more and more of this happening these days,” said Chief James Fitch of the Clute Police Department. “Inappropriate relations between educators and students was not enforced at the time because there was a different law in place at the time. But when children go to school and trust their teachers, , this kind of thing happens.”
Finch said law enforcement is “not aware of any other victims.”
The Brazosport Independent School District placed Hargrove on administrative leave in September after authorities learned of the police investigation.
“Upon being notified of the investigation initiated by an outside agency on September 29, 2023, Brazosport ISD took immediate action and placed the employee on administrative leave from contact with students,” the district said. informed parents. “As a result of these charges, the school district initiated employment-related actions to sever her employment.”
Hargrove could be fired if the school board decides his fate at its Jan. 22 meeting.
Brazosport Independent School District said: statement:
BISD remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity among our staff and takes the safety and well-being of our students very seriously. We understand that this news may cause concern. If you are a parent, student, or former student and have concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact Brazoswood High School Principal Rita Pintavalle or Brazosport ISD Police Chief Wade Nichols. Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.
Hargrove's attorney, Aaron Perry, previously declined to comment. KPRC-TV Regarding accusations of child sex crimes.
Do you like Blaze News? Avoid censorship and sign up for our newsletter to get articles like this delivered straight to your inbox. Please register here!
