Allegations of
inappropriate
relationship with
student arise

By Mary Garrison
Tribune-Courier Features Editor
mgarrison@tribunecourier.com

DRAFFENVILLE – Kentucky State Police are once again on the doorstep of the Marshall County School System.

“I can confirm that we are investigating an employee of the Marshall County School System in response to allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student,” said Kentucky State Police Trooper Dean Patterson.

Patterson said the matter came to his attention approximately two weeks ago.

No charges have been filed at this time.

In a comment made to the Paducah Sun, Patterson said the next step would be to present the case to the Grand Jury.

“They’ll decide whether or not charges may or could be filed.”

The Marshall County School Board has launched an investigation of its own, as well.

School superintendent Trent Lovett said he hopes to “get to the bottom” of the situation. However, without substantiated proof, no action can be taken.

“We are taking this very seriously,” Lovett said. “I can assure you that we will act appropriately once given the information we need to go on.”

Lovett said the board began its investigation and notified local authorities as soon as it had picked up on “an ugly rumor.”

He confirmed KSP involvement, as well. Lovett stated the agency contacted the board last Monday and asked for two yearbooks from two different years.

Lovett said KSP officials have found no evidence to suggest any inappropriate contact occurred on school grounds or at any school activity.

Further details were unavailable as of press time.