Former Hermann band director accused of sexual misconduct with a student : News : ConnectMidMissouri.com

Former Hermann band director accused of sexual misconduct with a student

Posted: 07.26.2011 at 12:49 PM

Joshua James was arrested Friday after allegations came forward that he had an inappropriate relationship with a student.

A former Hermann band director was charged last week with using a child in a sexual performance and furnishing pornography to the minor.

Joshua James, 31, is accused of exchanging sexually explicit emails with a 16-year-old student. He resigned this month as the band director. Court documents showed that on three occasions this month, the student sent James graphic video and photos of herself. He is also suspected of emailing an illicit photo of himself in return.

“We take the safety of our children very serious in this community and will pull no punches to ensure that they are safe and secure. We have always had and will continue to foster that relationship with the district staff and students,” City of Hermann Chief of Police Frank Tennant said. “The district staff notified our department as soon as they became aware of this matter and totally cooperated with our ensuing investigation. It takes diligence from each of us to ensure that our children are safe and protected in this community. We value our continued relationship with the district who always keep to best interest of our children foremost in their mind.”

The school district released a statement on Monday regarding the incident.

It said the district was aware of James' arrest. According to the district, James resigned his position on July 18. On July 19, the district was notified by a parent about the situation.

Dr. Chris Neale told County News Live that the arrest made for a rough week last week.

"My concern is for students and staff," Neale told CNL. "I've had a week with this, but now there are 1,100...1,200...1,300 people in shock and disbelief."

Currently, the Hermann School District is not aware of any other allegations of improper conduct between James and other minors according to the statement released.

The district is looking at ways to increase their already comprehensive safety plan for students. According to County News Live, Neale is working with district administrators to establish ways to make each school more safe, including adding windows to doors that don't already have them.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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