Bainbridge police chief: Investigation has started of BHS teacher accused of improper conduct with student

Published 8:21 pm Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Bainbridge Island Police Chief Matthew Hamner said police could not discuss the allegations against a Bainbridge Island school teacher who is accused of inappropriate conduct with a student because the investigation has just gotten started.

Bainbridge High officials announced late Wednesday that a teacher had been suspended because of inappropriate conduct with a student. Officials did not identify the teacher or the student, or provide any details on how long ago the inappropriate conduct occurred or the nature of the complaint.

School officials said BHS administrators became aware of the claims late in the afternoon of Tuesday, Feb. 24, and contacted Bainbridge police on Wednesday morning.

“We made an initial report today and currently the incident, or incidents, are under investigation,” Hamner said late Wednesday.

Hamner noted the claims are allegations at this point, and further investigation is necessary.

“We are in the early stages of the investigation,” Hamner said, and added he could provide no additional details.

BHS officials also said Wednesday the allegations will be looked into by an outside investigator hired by the school district.

The teacher at the center of the charges has been placed on administrative leave.

District officials did not respond to a request for additional comment late Wednesday.