Man charged with rape of young child worked as emotional support therapist at Delaware school
John Arnold, 47
WILMINGTON, Del. - A man who worked as a therapist at a Delaware school has been arrested and charged with sexually abusing a young child, police announced on Friday.
Earlier this month, New Castle County Police say they received a report of a sexual assault against a child in Wilmington.
Detectives learned that a five-year-old child reported that John Arnold, 47, had sexual contact with them on multiple occasions.
Authorities then learned that Arnold had worked as an emotional support therapist for the Brandywine School District. Investigators say there is no evidence at this time that indicates any students from the district were victims.
In a statement, the district said:
"We want to assure our students, staff, families, and community that the safety and well-being of our students is our main priority. Due to these circumstances, the staff member involved will not be performing any duties and will not be present in any capacity nor have any access to students while the investigation is ongoing.
Since recently learning of this situation, the District has and will continue cooperating fully with all law enforcement agencies. According to the ongoing police investigation, no evidence indicates that any students from the Brandywine School District were victims."
They also encouraged anyone with "relevant information" to contact New Castle County Police. They went on to say counseling would be available for anyone in need.
Arnold, 47, was taken into custody on Thursday and charged with rape and related offenses.
He was arraigned and bail was set at more than $1 million.