“Two of the suspects we have, people have come forward and shared their story,” Chief Matt Antkowiak said.
ARLINGTON, Texas — While investigating child sex abuse at an Arlington charter school, police say they’ve learned some disturbing history about two of their suspects.
Newman International Academy (NIA) police told WFAA that they are getting help from the FBI. The campus, located at 1111 Gibbins Rd. in Arlington, is a charter school for 7th through 12th grade.
Principal Rick Adams faces charges of tampering with evidence, while staff member Gabrielle Little is accused of child grooming. Former educator Ruel Barbee has been charged with an improper relationship with a student.
WFAA has reached out to Adams and Barbee for comment but has not received a response. Little’s mother stated that they have retained an attorney and declined to comment further.
NIA Police Chief Matt Antkowiak reported that the internal investigation is largely complete, but external investigations into the suspects’ backgrounds continue. Antkowiak says 11 individuals have come forward with allegations dating back to 1993.
“Two of the suspects we have, people have come forward and shared their story,” Chief Antkowiak said.
Full interview:
Chief Antkowiak disclosed that Rick Adams had been investigated for inappropriate behavior in two other school districts, including Fort Worth ISD. A Fort Worth ISD internal memo reportedly indicates that Adams was investigated twice for alleged inappropriate behavior with a student but was allowed to resign after each investigation.
“In 2006, inappropriate behavior investigated. Sustained. Still working there. 2011 Inappropriate behavior sustained. Makes me mad,” Chief Antkowiak said.
During a Senate hearing in Austin on April 8, Chief Antkowiak testified about difficulties encountered while investigating Adams’ past allegations.
“Fort Worth ISD failed to cooperate with my investigation into failure to report as well as sexual contact with a student,” he stated.
In response, Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Dr. Karen Molinar issued a statement: “I immediately contacted our legal department and Office of Professional Standards. I am investigating it myself, and it’s inexcusable in any way if we impede an investigation concerning a child.”
Chief Antkowiak is advocating for legislative measures to protect students from sexual abuse.
“I believe there must be an independent inspector general’s office tasked with addressing this epidemic,” he said.
He anticipates further discussions with lawmakers as they consider legislation aimed at preventing student sex abuse in Texas.