It appears that this is not the first time Michael Blevins, the former band director of Lakeview Middle School, has had allegations made against him.
WDEF News 12 spoke with the Principal who said that there have been three other incidents. One stemming from January 2011 and another occuring on November 26th with inappropriate text messages which lead to Thomas Blevins suspension and resignation. Steve McClure, Lakeview Middle School Principal said, "I am outraged by the allegations made against Mr. Blevins." Blevins, was arrested Tuesday for inappropriate contact with a 14 year old girl. WDEF News 12 first reported a week ago that Blevins was under investigation, and then quit after two reports of inappropriate text messages he sent to his own female band students.
A girl has now come forward with claims the former band director had inappropriate contact with her two years ago. McClure said, "The school system immediately reported the allegation to the Catoosa County Sheriff's Department and the Department of Family and Children's Services." Lakeview Middle School reports Blevins was also investigated almost two years ago for inappropriate behavior with his female students. Though he was only given quote "written directive for appropriate interactions with students." He kept his job, and the girls stayed in band. McClure said, "I will not tolerate any employee engaging in inappropriate behavior with my students." Blevins resigned from his position a week ago and was unemployed at the time of his arrest Tuesday.
The Catoosa County Sheriff's office says the arrest comes after a quote "month long investigation" which included the G-B-I. Blevins faces charges of aggravated child molestation, child molestation, and false imprisonment. McClure said, "I understand that it takes tremendous courage to report incidents of this nature. I want you to know that there are counselors, teachers, principals, and a nurse in our school to support you." The School District prepared a report to the professional standards commission requesting that they revoke Blevins teaching certificate completely. Blevins has been transported to the Catoosa County Sheriff's Office booked on the charges. He could face life in prison if convicted on all charges.
