On February 24th, the Giles County Sheriff’s Department apprehended a suspect identified as Steven Hughes, who serves as an agricultural teacher at Giles County High School. Hughes faces serious allegations of soliciting a minor and was subsequently released from the Giles County Jail the following day after posting a bond set at $5,000.
In response to the situation, Vickie Beard, the Director of Schools for Giles County, confirmed that the school district was informed of the matter on Friday. She emphasized that an investigation was promptly initiated in collaboration with the Giles County Sheriff’s Department. Beard noted that due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, she is unable to provide additional comments at this time.
Hughes is scheduled to appear in court on March 11th to address the charges against him. Authorities are also investigating the possibility that other students may have experienced inappropriate interactions with Hughes. The Giles County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have additional information or concerns regarding potential victims to reach out at 931-363-3505.
Sheriff Purvis took the opportunity to remind the community of their legal obligations, stating, “Everyone in Tennessee is a mandatory reporter under T.C.A. 37-1-403.” This law mandates that any suspicions of child abuse or neglect must be reported to the appropriate authorities, which can include law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, or the Department of Children’s Services.