A McCollum High School teacher was arrested on campus Tuesday and is facing a charge of sexual assault of a child, according to San Antonio police. Investigators say the alleged assault happened on Nov. 10, with school officials contacting law enforcement on Nov. 19. Officers took the teacher into custody at the school, and the case remains under active investigation, as reported by San Antonio Express-News.
What police say
San Antonio police identified the suspect as 46-year-old Edwardo Cantu. He was arrested after investigators with the department's Special Victims Unit gathered evidence and secured an arrest warrant, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Police told the outlet that Cantu faces a sexual assault of a child charge, has no prior criminal history on record, and that investigators are not ruling out the possibility of additional victims.
Teacher's role at McCollum
District records show Cantu working in a high-profile spot on campus. Harlandale Independent School District's online staff directory lists an Edwardo Cantu as McCollum High School's mariachi instructor, confirming his role at the school, according to Harlandale ISD. The listing places him among the campus arts staff.
Earlier probes at the campus
This is not the first time McCollum has been under scrutiny over staff conduct. Local coverage earlier this year detailed other personnel investigations at the school, including records related to an allegation of an inappropriate relationship that drew attention from both the district and state officials, according to KSAT. Those prior probes form part of the backdrop as authorities now work through the latest case.
Police are asking for tips
SAPD says its Special Victims Unit is keeping the door open to potential additional allegations. Investigators urged anyone with information, or anyone who believes they may be a victim, to contact the unit at 210-207-2313, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Detectives say the investigation is ongoing and that more details could be released as the case moves forward.
Legal process
The charge of sexual assault of a child falls under provisions of the Texas Penal Code that criminalize sexual conduct with minors and treat the offense as a felony under state law, per the Texas Penal Code. From here, the case will proceed through the local criminal justice system while detectives and prosecutors review the evidence and determine next steps.
