MACON, Ga. — Some Jones County parents and neighbors are upset after learning police arrested and charged a teacher with child molestation. Authorities say 7th grade teacher Witcher Tate Wilson taught English language arts at Clifton Ridge Middle School.
On Thursday, Jones County deputies arrested Wilson. Lieutenant Kenny Gleaton with the Jones County Sheriff's Office says Wilson is charged with one count of child molestation. Jasmine King lives near Clifton Ridge and says the arrest worries her.
"That could have happened to me. I was there in the 7th grade, well, 6th through 8th, and one of the teachers could have been looking at me or something so it's scary," said King.
Lieutenant Gleaton says it allegedly happened on school grounds but he didn't provide any further details on the age or sex of the alleged victim.
"I think it falls on the parents as well as the people who are over and in charge of hiring people. They need to make sure they do thorough background checks," said King.
Parent Derek Stanley says he was disappointed when he heard the accusations.
"I wish that on no kid or his family or her family. It's devastating," said Stanley.
Sheriff Butch Reece took to Facebook and says the sheriff's office is conducting "numerous interviews" and that additional charges are pending.
Shelly Seward commented saying "Lord knows the school hasn't told us anything."
13WMAZ spoke to several parents who were unhappy they weren't notified through the school.
"They expect their kids to be in good hands. I mean, you are there eight hours a day, if not more with extracurricular activities. You want to make sure they are safe," said King.
Principal Charles Lundy wouldn't comment if parents were notified on the arrest. He referred further questions to the superintendent. The district released a statement saying their primary goal is the safety of all students.
Anyone with more information can contact the sheriff's office at 478-986-3489.