This is the news out of Durham, North Carolina, where a disturbing case of alleged child abuse has resulted in the arrests of three individuals associated with a local charter school.
Authorities report that the investigation began on August 21, when officers responded to a report of child abuse at Research Triangle Charter Academy, located on Ellis Road. Following the initial inquiry, Durham Police allege that a school employee, identified as Jeremy Raekwon Whitley, 28, assaulted a student, causing serious injury.
On November 4, Whitley was charged with multiple counts, including aggravated assault of a child, aggravated assault of a disabled person, and indecent assault of a child under 12 years of age. Three days later, Whitley surrendered to authorities and was booked into the Durham County Jail. He was later released on a $50,000 secured bond.
Further Allegations and Charges
The investigation widened to include two additional school employees. Police have charged Nicole Anne Scotto, 35, and Melanie Butler Stack, 47, with obstruction of justice and failure to report child abuse. Both women were released on unsecured bonds. Scotto’s role at the school has not yet been clarified, though she has been placed on administrative leave. Stack, who served as the school’s principal, resigned following the allegations.
School’s Response
In a statement to CBS 17, school spokesperson Leah Wheatlake confirmed that Whitley is no longer employed at the academy. She added:
“We are shocked to hear about these allegations and are cooperating fully with the police investigation. Although privacy rights and ongoing investigations limit the information I can share, what I can say is that we do not take lightly the trust our parents place in us to provide their children with a safe learning environment. The well-being of our academics remains one of our top priorities.”
What Comes Next
Durham Police continue to investigate the matter and have urged anyone with information to contact Detective C. Park of the department’s Special Victims Unit at 919-560-4440 ext. 29321.
While the charges remain allegations at this stage, the incident raises serious concerns about the safety and oversight within educational institutions trusted with the care of young children.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the way it is tonight. This is a developing story, and more details are expected to emerge as the case proceeds. Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
