St. George’s Independent School has been at the center of a sexual assault investigation following multiple reports filed with the Collierville Police Department (CPD). The school's Head of School, Luke Pruett, will be returning from administrative leave after a review of the school's policies and the subsequent handling of the incidents.
According to Action News 5, Pruett's leave began shortly after the first report of a sexual assault came through, which led to the expulsion of multiple students. The St. George’s Board of Trustees informed the community of Pruett's imminent return, stating, "It is important that we come together to maintain an environment focused on educating our children, while we care for them, our families, faculty and staff." Amidst this decision, the CPD confirmed an ongoing investigation into the incidents, with no charges being filed thus far.
A second instance of sexual assault has surfaced with connections to St. George’s Independent School. FOX13 Memphis reports that a second victim alleged a sexual assault occurring on September 12, while the first reported assault took place in early October. In response to these allegations, two individuals have been charged with tampering with evidence, while a third faces unrelated drug charges, as stated by the Olive Branch Police Department.
Enhancing the complexities of the case, the CPD and the Shelby County Child Protective Investigative Team are actively looking into both reports of assault. As stated in a Local Memphis article, the investigation has so far included four search warrants in the counties of Shelby and Olive Branch. The authorities believe both incidents are linked to the same suspect, with the CPD sharing updates on social media and reiterating their coordination with all agencies involved.
The return of Pruett to St. George's comes amid these serious allegations and ongoing police activities. The school has remarked on their full cooperation with the investigation and the undertaking of a comprehensive audit of their safety protocols. The entirety of these events underscores the gravity of ensuring student safety and the essential role of institutional accountability and transparency in handling such cases.
