EAGLE MOUNTAIN, UT – A former teacher at Rockwell Charter School is facing over 40 charges of criminal sexual misconduct after allegedly fleeing to Brazil, according to the Utah County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect, 39-year-old Ricardo Prince, is accused of engaging in inappropriate sexual relationships with two female students.
Court documents reveal that the alleged incidents took place in various locations, including Prince’s classroom after school hours, a storage room, his car, and other remote areas. Authorities became aware of the allegations last December, but by that time, Prince had already left the country.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Prince, and officials are determined to bring him to justice despite his absence from the United States. “If he returns, he will be arrested on the outstanding warrant,” the sheriff’s office stated. Meanwhile, the victims are receiving support from victim advocates to help them cope with the trauma.
The investigation has led to questions about how Prince was able to secure a teaching position at the charter school and whether adequate background checks were conducted. The school has so far declined to comment on its hiring practices or the measures it plans to implement to ensure student safety in the future.
Prince’s work visa, which allowed him to teach at the charter school, has expired, complicating any potential return to the U.S. The sheriff’s office noted that this would make it difficult for him to re-enter the country legally.
The situation has left parents and the community deeply concerned about the safety of students and the effectiveness of the school’s oversight. Parents have expressed their worries about the school’s handling of the situation and are eager for answers regarding the steps being taken to prevent similar incidents.
Efforts to reach Rockwell Charter School administrators for comment have been unsuccessful, leaving many questions unanswered. The community is left grappling with the implications of the allegations and the potential impact on trust in the education system.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the case. The focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and preventing future occurrences of such misconduct.