A former middle school teacher at Rocky Knoll School in Martinsburg, West Virginia, has been charged with sex-related offenses involving a former student. Jorge William Mendoza, 29, is facing charges of third degree sexual assault, sexual abuse by a person in a position of trust, and solicitation of a minor by computer. Mendoza was fired from his teaching position last month.
The investigation began on October 1 when the West Virginia State Police received information about the crimes allegedly committed against a 14-year-old girl. According to the victim's statement, she had exchanged messages with Mendoza on social media apps. She stated that Mendoza had been friendly to her when she was in 7th grade and he was her teacher. However, in her 8th grade year, Mendoza kissed her at school, which was followed by messages between them. In August of this year, Mendoza allegedly entered the victim's home while her parents were away and engaged in sexual activity. He later returned with Plan B for her to take.
The victim preserved messages on Discourse, which investigators believe are crucial to the case. Additionally, a message from Mendoza's wife confronting the victim about her relationship with him was presented to the police. On October 4, while the investigator was speaking with the victim, the victim's father went to Mendoza's home to confront him, prompting a Berkeley County sheriff's deputy to be called. The deputy seized Mendoza's cell phone, and subsequent search warrants were issued for other devices as part of the investigation.
The Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney's Office provided an indictment regarding one victim in this case. The administration of Rocky Knoll School released a statement on October 6, acknowledging the allegations and stating that Mendoza's employment had been terminated after allegations of inappropriate contact with two minors associated with the school. The school reported the allegations to the authorities as soon as they became aware of them.
Prior to his termination, Mendoza had been suspended from his teaching position and was prohibited from contacting students or being on school property. The school is working closely with law enforcement as the investigation continues. Crisis counselors will be available for students and staff when school resumes. The school emphasized that the safety and well-being of its students are its top priorities and that it does not tolerate any behavior that puts students at risk.
This case is currently under investigation by the West Virginia State Police Crimes Against Children Unit, and Mendoza will face legal consequences if found guilty of the charges against him.
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