No arrest yet in alleged MHS sex assault

The Department of Public Safety has yet to make an arrest in the alleged faculty misconduct at Marianas High School last week that DPS now terms a “sexual assault of a minor” incident.

DPS finally spoke yesterday about the sexual assault of a minor claim that surfaced over a week ago, Jan. 9, involving an MHS student and MHS staff member and has confirmed that they are actively investigating the situation.

DPS, at the same time, noted that the individual in question was a faculty member, similar to what the MHS administration said last week.

Saipan Tribune learned from its sources, though, that the person involved—a teacher—had voluntarily resigned on the same day the DPS report was made, Jan. 9, citing familial obligations.

A statement from the office of Education Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Camacho last Monday stated that a former MHS teacher had resigned effective Friday, Jan. 12, 2024—three days after the incident allegedly happened.

DPS, in a press release yesterday, shared more details of the alleged incident.

DPS said it received a call at approximately 12:54pm on Jan. 9, about a sexual assault of a minor incident at the MHS campus. At approximately 1:01pm, officers arrived on the scene and met with the school’s principal, Jonathan Aguon.

According to DPS, officers learned that a faculty member had been seen kissing a student on campus grounds.

“The incident is currently under investigation. No arrest has been made yet. The Division of Youth Services was also on the scene due to the victim being a minor child,” DPS said.

On Monday, Camacho issued the following statement: “We understand this is a challenging time for all, however, rest assured PSS and MHS are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and high-quality educational experience for all students. We understand that transitions can be unsettling, and we want to assure the community that we are dedicated to maintaining the standards of excellence that MHS is known for. Our priority remains the well-being and education of our students, and we will work diligently to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved. We appreciate the community’s patience, cooperation, and support.”