Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan Police Department announced the arrest of a former school employee following an investigation into allegations involving inappropriate conduct with a student.
According to police, the investigation began May 6 after the Houston County Department of Human Resources notified investigators about reports involving Johnny Mark Dunaway, 55, of Midland City.
Investigators said Dunaway had already been placed on administrative leave by Dothan City Schools and was no longer around children at the school while the investigation was ongoing.
Police learned an initial report involving alleged inappropriate conduct by Dunaway was made to Dothan City Schools in February. Officials said the complaint was handled internally by the school system. A second report was made April 28 involving similar allegations with a student, prompting another internal investigation by the school system.
According to investigators, Dothan City Schools notified Houston County DHR on May 6, and the information was then forwarded to Dothan Police.
Authorities said a forensic interview was later conducted where allegations of sexual crimes involving Dunaway were disclosed by the student.
On May 13, investigators executed a search warrant at Dunaway’s residence in Dale County. Several items were seized and are currently undergoing forensic examination. Police also issued court orders to several social media and gaming platforms as part of the investigation.
Dunaway has been charged with seven counts of enticing a child for immoral purposes, one count of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old and one count of interference with custody.
He was booked into the Houston County Jail and is being held without bond. Investigators said additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.
“The safety of our children is non-negotiable,” said Dothan Police Chief William E. Benny. “The Dothan Police Department will devote every available resource to investigating crimes against children, and anyone who exploits a position of trust to victimize a child should expect our full commitment to pursuing justice.”
