In a deeply troubling case, Robert Scroggs, a 73-year-old substitute special education teacher in Bellevue, Washington, has been arrested for the second time on charges of child molestation. Scroggs, who worked with the Bellevue School District's special-needs department, was taken into custody after allegations surfaced that he had sexually assaulted an eight-year-old student at Newport Heights Elementary School.
The Bellevue Police Department arrested Scroggs on June 7 after a parent reported that her child had been molested by the teacher. According to the police, the assaults occurred when Scroggs would remove the victim from class under the pretext of addressing social, emotional, and behavioral issues.
73-Year-Old Special Ed Teacher Arrested for a Second Time on Child Molestation Charges: A Washington special education substitute teacher has been arrested again after a second alleged victim accused him of sexual assault.
The post… https://t.co/yqnv7qdCdq #Crime #Education pic.twitter.com/jjRqGFf3H4
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The parent became aware of the abuse when the child confided in them, identifying Scroggs as the perpetrator.
Scroggs was previously arrested on similar charges in April, raising concerns about the potential for additional victims. The Bellevue Police Department has urged anyone with information about Scroggs or other potential cases to come forward. Authorities have involved the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center and Child Protective Services in the ongoing investigation.
A 73-year-old substitute special education teacher was arrested for the 2nd time after new allegations of child molestation.https://t.co/mbo5lwh1gc
— KOMO News (@komonews) July 9, 2024
The Bellevue community is reeling from the revelations, with parents and school officials expressing outrage and concern over the safety of their children. The police are withholding the victim's identity to protect the child's privacy and the integrity of the investigation.
Scroggs's history as a long-time special education teacher in the district amplifies the gravity of the situation. His recent employment from January to April 2024 at Newport Heights Elementary is under intense scrutiny as investigators look into his interactions with other students.
The Bellevue Police Department has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all community members, especially children. They have provided resources for parents to discuss safety and boundaries with their children and have encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities.
This case highlights the critical need for vigilant monitoring and swift action when allegations of abuse arise, ensuring that educators entrusted with children's care are held to the highest standards of conduct and accountability.
