DALLAS, Texas– A principal and two former educators at Newman International Academy in Arlington, Texas are facing legal actions related to allegations of child abuse.
The arrests include the school principal, Richard Adams, and two educators, Ruel Barbee and Gabrielle Little.
These charges have sparked concern in the community regarding the safety and well-being of students at the charter school, which serves grades 7 through 12.
Police records indicate that Barbee and Little were charged with forming inappropriate relationships with students.
Barbee, who held the position of an educational aide, was taken into custody on February 6. He faces charges of engaging in an improper relationship with a student.
Little, who turned herself in upon learning of an arrest warrant, is accused of child grooming, a third-degree felony.
Principal Richard Adams, 54, was arrested later, facing multiple charges, including failure to report abuse and tampering with evidence and a witness.
These charges are serious, with some being classified as third-degree felonies.
Adams was booked into the Tarrant County Jail, with authorities noting that his involvement included a failure to act on the alleged misconduct and attempts to conceal evidence.
The investigation was prompted by tips and followed by a week-long review of evidence and interviews with students and staff.
Despite the arrests, police have not disclosed detailed information regarding the number of students affected or the circumstances leading to the charges.
Dr. Sheba George, Superintendent of Newman International Academy, has publicly stated that the school will not tolerate any form of abuse or attempts to cover it up.
The school has taken action by suspending those involved from their duties and initiating an internal inquiry alongside the police investigation.
Arlington authorities have yet to release further details.
