Teacher Arrested for Indecent Liberties in Leavenworth

Parents and community members discussing safety concerns outside a school

News Summary

Jerome C. Riscovallez, a 54-year-old STEM teacher from Henry Leavenworth Elementary, was arrested on charges of indecent liberties with a child. The local community is shocked and angry as the school district responds by terminating his contract and ensuring safety measures for students. Allegations span several months, raising serious concerns among parents. The suspect remains in jail on a $250,000 bond, with investigations ongoing. Community members are urged to report any further information to the authorities. This incident emphasizes the need for vigilance regarding child safety in educational settings.

Breaking News from Leavenworth: Teacher Arrested for Indecent Liberties with a Child

Residents of Leavenworth are feeling a wave of shock and anger as news breaks about a local teacher’s arrest on serious charges. Jerome C. Riscovallez, a 54-year-old STEM educator from Henry Leavenworth Elementary School, was taken into custody on Thursday afternoon following allegations of indecent liberties with a child.

Details of the Arrest

The Leavenworth County District Attorney’s Office formally filed the charges against Riscovallez, who was suspended and placed on investigatory leave on February 14, 2025. This whole situation reportedly unfolded during a timeframe stretching from August 1, 2024, until February 25, 2025. This extensive period of time raises many concerns among parents and community members.

The victim in this alarming situation is listed as being born in 2017, placing them at an incredibly vulnerable age. It’s difficult for anyone to comprehend the impact such allegations can have on young lives and the community as a whole.

School District’s Response

In light of the arrest, the Leavenworth School District wasted no time in addressing the situation. The school board convened for two Special Meetings for Non-Elected Personnel coinciding with Riscovallez’s arrest. Unanimously, the board voted 7-0 to terminate his contract. They cited inappropriate interactions with a student and violations of three significant board policies as reasons for this decision.

Furthermore, Riscovallez has been barred from accessing any school property while investigations continue. This brings a layer of security to parents who are understandably worried about their children’s safety in what should be a nurturing learning environment.

Community Outrage and Support

In the wake of this troubling news, many parents have taken to discussing their concerns, expressing anger over past complaints that they feel were inadequately addressed by school leadership. It seems that trust has been shaken, and parents are now left questioning the safety protocols in place for their children.

A Wider History

Interestingly, Riscovallez is not new to teaching in the area. According to a spokesperson from the Kansas City, Kansas, Public School District, he worked there from 2015 to 2017 before resigning after his second year. This history raises further questions and highlights a need for thorough background checks when it comes to school staff.

Legal and Community Resources

Currently, Riscovallez is being held in the Leavenworth County Jail on a bond set at $250,000. He is set to appear before a judge on Friday, February 28, 2025. In the meantime, authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to the case to step forward. They have opened up the lines of communication, encouraging tips through the Leavenworth Police Department.

For those who wish to remain anonymous, the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers Tips Hotline is available, even offering cash rewards for information. It’s critical that the community come together to support each other in this difficult time.

Conclusion

The unfolding events surrounding Jerome C. Riscovallez serve as a shocking reminder of the importance of vigilance in our schools. The well-being of children should always be our highest priority, and the community is now tasked with reevaluating trust in educational environments. As the investigation progresses, parents and residents will undoubtedly be watching closely, hoping for a thorough resolution to ensure the safety of all children in Leavenworth.