Texas' former “Teacher of the Year” was disgraced again 15 years ago after a former student reported a long-standing inappropriate relationship between the two when she was just 15 years old.
Brandin Hargrove, 43, was taken into custody on Dec. 21 on “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.” of daily mail report.
According to authorities in the city of Clute, Texas, the victim, now in his 30s, reported the alleged abuse to police in September 2023. The unidentified woman claims that the relationship began in 2007 and lasted for two years.
At the time of his arrest, Hargrove was teaching at Brazoswood High School in Clute, where he was accused of abusing his position against students years ago.
The Brazosport Independent School District has placed Hargrove on administrative leave since the allegations were discovered in September, but he has not technically been fired yet.
School board officials reported that they had taken steps to fire her on January 2, but she “will remain on paid leave until termination action is taken by the school board,” the newspaper reported. Ta.
A vote on whether to finalize the termination will take place on January 22nd.
Clute Police Chief James Fitch said the victim stated the sexual incident occurred off campus during the course of an abusive relationship.
“Unfortunately, this is happening more and more these days,” he previously said.
Improper relationships between educators and students was not enforced at the time, as other laws were in place at the time. But this is what happens when children go to school and trust their teachers.
The Brazosport Independent School District issued a statement telling parents that the situation was not being “taken lightly” and encouraging them to voice their concerns.
Brazoswood High School teacher Brandin Hargrove has been indicted and charged with multiple counts of sexual misconduct with a minor dating back to 2007, it has been learned. Upon being notified of the investigation initiated by an outside agency on September 29, 2023, Brazosport ISD said the company took immediate action to place the employee on administrative leave and prevent the employee from having any contact with students. did. In response to these accusations, the school district initiated employment-related actions to sever her employment.
Please understand that our responsibility to care for and protect the children entrusted to our care is never taken lightly. If you are a parent, student, or former student and have concerns, please contact Brazoswood High School Principal Rita Pintavalle or Brazosport ISD Police Chief Wade Nichols. Brazosport ISD expects the highest standards of professionalism and integrity from its employees to ensure a safe learning environment.
The accused educator had previously been named “Teacher of the Year” at Brazoswood High School, and the community was concerned about the children.
“I think every parent worries about this,” one says. Concerned the father told KPRC-TV. “She has received numerous awards. She was on the district's education foundation.”
Another parent added: You know, you're there to learn and stuff like this happens. ”
Just hours after his arrest, Hargrove posted $240,000 bail and was released from the Brazoria County Jail.
