TEMPLE, Texas — A series of alleged sexual misconduct and improper relationships with students, involving teachers and school staff members across Central Texas has raised concerns over student safety, with investigations ongoing in multiple districts.
Below is a list of recent incidents in Central Texas, starting in December of 2024:
- December 19, 2024 – Copperas Cove ISD
- Suspect: Lawrence Dale Varela-Halbert, Band Director
- Allegation: Sexual assault of a child
- Status: Arrest affidavit requested; investigation ongoing
- January 16, 2025 – Bartlett ISD
- Teacher: Identity not released by district
- Allegation: Improper relationship between educator and student, sexual assault of a child
- Status: Arrested on January 15, 2025, booked into Bell County Jail (later released)
- Investigation: Request for arrest affidavit made, but case does not fall under Bell County jurisdiction; further inquiry sent to Williamson County District Clerk
- January 28, 2025 – Lampasas ISD
- Staff Member: Identity not released by district
- Allegation: Misconduct involving a student
- Status: Staff member resigned, investigation by police and sheriff’s department ongoing
- Status of arrest: None, no further details available
- January 28, 2025 – Killeen ISD
- Teacher: Identity not released by district
- Allegation: Inappropriate relationship with a student
- Status: Investigation ongoing, no arrest made
- January 29, 2025 – Robinson ISD
- Staff Member: Christopher Gonzales, 42
- Allegation: Improper relationship with a student, tampering with evidence
- Status: Arrested and booked in the McLennan County Jail (later released)
- February 7, 2025 – Bartlett ISD
- Staff Member: Identity not released by district
- Allegation: Improper relationship with a student
- Status: Placed on administrative leave
- Context: Second staff member from Bartlett ISD under investigation within two months for similar allegations
Law enforcement expert and director of law enforcement training and operations at Skull Games Joseph Scaramucci warns parents to watch for warning signs, particularly suspicious communication through social media apps.
“When we start looking at things that are more secretive… whether they be a high schooler or as young as elementary on Snapchat, there’s no reason for that,” said Scaramucci…