Teacherstudent relationship investigated

An improper teacher and student relationship is currently under investigation by the Alto Police Department.

Alto coach Paul Dixon, 37, resigned last Thursday amid allegations of an improper relationship with a student.

Chief Charles Barron confirmed that his department was contacted by Alto ISD Superintendent Ray DeSpain March 2.

Later that same day, he was asked to investigate a different, yet related case involving another Alto ISD employee who may have attempted to obstruct one of the witnesses.

"I have two on-going investigations," said Chief Barron. "I hope that by the end of this week, or the first part of next week that the case involving the charge of an improper relationship will be ready for the D.A."

Chief Barron said that it is a routine practice to refer the investigation to the district attorney.

After District Attorney Elmer Beckworth reviews the case, he may refer it to the Cherokee County grand jury.

In a telephone interview with the Cherokeean Herald, Dr. DeSpain confirmed that the AISD board of trustees met March 5 and accepted Mr. Dixon's resignation.

The other AISD employee was placed on administrative leave with pay until the investigation is completed. "Because of his rights to privacy and not compromising the integrity of the investigation, we cannot and will not comment further," he said.

Some of the evidence in the case allegedly involves inappropriate text messaging.

According to sources familiar with the case, several female students saw text messages between the teacher and student and alerted school officials.