A special education teacher from Nevada, recognized nationally for his “excellence,” has been accused of abusing an underage boy over several years. The allegations involve forcing the minor to engage in sexual acts and even vomiting in a cemetery, authorities have reported.
Douglas Trinkle, 52, a specialist in autism, faces multiple serious charges related to his interactions with the boy, who, at the time the incidents began, was around 14 or 15 years old and wasn’t his student, according to the indictment.
Law enforcement in Boulder City, located about 32 miles from Las Vegas, revealed that the young accuser told them that Trinkle had initially shown “love” through gifts before escalating to sexual activities starting in August 2023.
According to the indictment, during a walk in the cemetery, Trinkle pressed the boy to perform oral sex, leading to the minor vomiting on-site. The suspect later stated that he had pulled down the boy’s pants and said, “put him inside me,” expressing concern that his mother might find out.
Trinkle is accused of sexually abusing the victim two to three times a week for nearly two years, notably without protection.
He was arrested a month ago on various serious charges, including statutory sexual enticement and sexual assault of a child under 16, in addition to two counts of child abuse and lewd conduct involving minors aged 14 and 15. He remains behind bars with a bail set at $75,000.
Even though Trinkle is affiliated with Cimarron Memorial High School, Principal Colin McNaught pointed out that the allegations do not pertain to any of the school’s students.
Having received his teaching license in 2012, Trinkle has worked at various schools in Nevada and was awarded the National Outstanding Special Education Teacher Award in 2016.
School district officials previously highlighted his dedication and creativity, noting that he was recognized by colleagues for his commitment to improving teaching strategies and supporting both students and fellow educators.
