Crime & Safety
Accused Cartersville High Teacher Fired
The Cartersville City Schools board upheld the termination of Sean McDermott, a math teacher employed by the system since August, who is the subject of a police investigation.
Updated Friday, 2 p.m.
CPD Capt. Mark Camp clarified a previous statement on "credible witnesses."
He said in this case, the witnesses police interviewed "didn't see anything," referring to the alleged inappropriate touching.
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Original Report
The Cartersville High School teacher accused of inappropriately touching a student has been fired as the police investigation continues.
Find out what's happening in Cartersvillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
During a called meeting Tuesday, the Cartersville City Schools Board of Education upheld Superintendent Howard Hinesley's recommendation to terminate math teacher Sean McDermott's contract. He had been employed with the system since August.
"McDermott had asked for a hearing before the Board of Education following an investigation based upon complaints of students," Assistant Superintendent Ken Clouse said in a statement. "Those complaints and the resulting investigation indicated a violation of the Georgia Educators Code of Ethics."
McDermott is currently the subject of a related, ongoing criminal investigation, Cartersville Police Department Capt. Mark Camp confirmed.
Last month, , prompting authorities to investigate incidents that allegedly occurred from Oct. 15 to Nov. 8.
McDermott was placed on administrative leave. His hearing Tuesday was lengthy; it began at 9 a.m. and concluded about 7:30 p.m., according to Clouse.
"Each side in the matter was allowed to call witnesses and present evidence. The burden of proof fell on the school system to make its case," Clouse added. "Regretfully, the school board came to its conclusion and upheld the termination recommendation."
Police have not charged McDermott with any crimes. Camp said investigators still need to interview another student, who is considered a witness, but added authorities to date have found "no credible witnesses."
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Related Content
- Cartersville High Teacher Accused of Inappropriately Touching Student
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