Hertford Co. teacher charged with taking indecent liberties with student
HERTFORD COUNTY, N.C. (WAVY) — A music teacher and band director at Hertford County High School has been charged with taking indecent liberties with a student.
Travis Jaquan Gatling, 28, of Winton was arrested at his home around 1:30 a.m. Saturday.
According to the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office, Gatling was charged with one felony count of taking indecent liberties with a student and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Investigators allege that Gatling and the victim sent explicit pictures and messages to one another.
On Tuesday, Jan. 23, Gatling posted a $15,000 bond.
Hertford County Public Schools said that it is “deeply disturbed” to learn of charges filed against one of its teachers, and that it learned of the information 12 days prior to his arrest and immediately suspended the teacher.
The following is Hertford County Public Schools’ statement on the arrest:
Hertford County Public Schools (HCPS) is deeply disturbed to learn of the charges filed against one of our teachers. The Hertford County High School officials were made aware of this information on Monday, January 8, 2024, and immediately took swift action by contacting local law enforcement for further investigation. The district responded in kind by immediately suspending the teacher.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. HCPS is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation, and appropriate measures will be taken to address this situation in accordance with the law and our internal policies. The school district is committed to providing a safe, secure and nurturing environment for all students. We will continue to provide support to HCHS campus.
Superintendent, Dr. Jesse Pratt stated, HCPS will not tolerate any behavior that compromises the safety and trust within our educational community. As the legal process unfolds, we will keep our stakeholders informed and take the necessary actions to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.— Hertford County Public Schools
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