Irving Music Teacher Accused Of Molesting Child For Years
IRVING, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) - A music teacher at Lee Britain Elementary School in Irving has been arrested for indecency with a child.
The victim, a 10-year-old girl, made an outcry that her music teacher, Edmund Charles Barrera, "touched her (genitals) through her clothing while she was seated at a piano at the school" according to an arrest affidavit.
Police said the sexual contact took place multiple time over the past few years during classroom hours.
Detectives had previously been investigating Barrera for three reports of unwanted but non-sexual touching of students. Police say an additional four or five students have since come forward with similar claims.
"Such things as touching them on the shoulder, the head, the cheek," said Officer James McLellan.
One mother told CBS11 Barrera treated girls differently, touching her daughter and others on the knees and shoulders, giving them candy, and telling them they were beautiful.
Another mother told CBS11 she was the first to file a report with police, prompting their investigation. She said she turned to law enforcement after she felt the school ignored her daughter's complaint that Barrera was making her uncomfortable.
A letter sent home with students Monday principal Adriana Rico wrote, "It is important you know that Britain Elementary School administration and the district leadership were made aware of the allegations only recently and took immediate action."
Barrera is in the Irving Jail with bond set at $50,000.
The Irving Police Department is encouraging parents to speak with their children about the dangers of inappropriate contact. Any parent who feels their child may have been touched inappropriately is urged to tell police.
READ THE ARREST AFFIDAVIT HERE:
Regarding Barerra's arrest, Irving ISD released the following statement Monday afternoon"
Irving ISD is committed to the safety of our students and expect all staff to adhere to the highest ethical practices and conduct. We are aware of the arrest of Britain Elementary School music teacher Edmund Barrera.
According to the Irving Police Department, the inappropriate behavior took place over the past few years. We do not tolerate behaviors that compromise the safety or well-being of our students.
District leadership was made aware of the allegations only recently and took immediate action Mr. Barrera is not on campus and we continue to cooperate with the ongoing police investigation.