SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. - Delaware State Police say troopers on Wednesday arrested another member of the Sussex Central High School staff on sex charges.
Twenty-four-year-old John George Rainis of Lewis is charged with sexual extortion and third-degree unlawful sexual contact.
Troopers say they took Rainis into custody Wednesday at Sussex Central High School where he is an athletic trainer and a full-time substitute teacher.
According to investigators, police began questioning a female student after rumors surfaced that an inappropriate relationship occurred between the pair.
Troopers say they learned that while the female student was receiving treatment for an athletic injury, Rainis allegedly touched the victim inappropriately. When the victim attempted to stop his advances Rainis reminded her that he was the only one who could clear her to participate in her sport, police say.
State police say they believe the inappropriate behavior happened several times in the training room at the high school during the month of March 2009.
Investigators say they executed a search warrant at the high school and at Rainis' home in Lewes and removed electronic devices for forensic examination.
The examination will be conducted by the State Police High Technology Crimes Unit.
Rainis was charged with one count of sexual extortion and one count of third-degree unlawful sexual contact. Rainis was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court #2 in Lewes and was committed to the Department of Correction in default of $7,000 cash bail.
This latest development comes after police arrested John O. Thompson, 26, of Dagsboro, on Tuesday at Sussex Central High School after police received information of a rape from school administration.
The 26-year-old Indian River School District high school teacher is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 10th grade student.
As a result of the two arrests in two days of Sussex Central High School employees, Indian River Superintendent of Schools Dr. Susan S. Bunting issued the following statement:
"The Indian River School District has a number of strong policies in place regarding staff conduct in the workplace. At least four of these policies specifically address sexual harassment, sexual misconduct and fraternization with students. We expect all district employees to abide by the provisions of these policies or face consequences that could include termination. Sexual harassment or misconduct directed toward a student is unacceptable and will not be tolerated by the district administration or Board of Education.
"As per State of Delaware law, criminal background and child protection registry checks are completed on every district employee at the time of his or her hire. The Indian River School District currently has more than 1,000 employees, the vast majority of whom are professional, hard-working and dedicated to the education and well-being of our students. The efforts of these fine individuals should not be diminished by the alleged actions of a few. The district will continue to provide support to all teachers and employees during this difficult time.
"As a result of this week's events at Sussex Central High School, the district is planning additional sensitivity training for teachers during the inservice period that runs from June 15-18. In addition, counseling sessions were held on Thursday for every Sussex Central High School student in Grades 9-11.
"The district would like to offer a sincerely apology to Sussex Central's senior class of 2009. We hope these events do not dim the seniors' memories of a wonderful graduation ceremony. The school and district are committed to moving beyond these unfortunate incidents and returning the focus to the education of our children. Sussex Central High School remains a fine institution with many talented students and teachers. No amount of adversity should tarnish their accomplishments."
