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A teacher from Harlandale Independent School District has been taken into custody on charges of sexually assaulting a child. Edwardo Cantu, 46, was arrested by the San Antonio Police Department on Tuesday following an allegation involving a teenage student, according to KSAT.
According to authorities, the incident is reported to have occurred on November 10, possibly on the grounds of McCollum High School, located at 5600 Sunshine Dr, Austin, TX 78756. The school administration became aware of the allegations on November 19 through informal channels.
Detectives subsequently secured a warrant for Cantu's arrest, and he was apprehended without incident during school hours at the campus.
Authorities confirm that Cantu has no prior criminal history. In response to the arrest, Harlandale ISD released a statement emphasizing their commitment to student safety and compliance with legal procedures. A crisis team will be present at McCollum High School to support students and staff as the investigation unfolds.
The police are investigating the possibility of additional victims and have encouraged anyone with information to reach out to SAPD’s Special Victims Unit. An active investigation is currently underway, and further details are expected to be released as the situation develops.
In the wake of alarming sexual abuse allegations against a teacher at Harlandale ISD, many victims may feel uncertain about their rights and options. To clarify the legal landscape regarding abuse by educators, we spoke with Anjali Nigam, a seasoned Texas sexual abuse lawyer. Her experience lends valuable perspective on what steps victims can take to seek accountability and support.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Anjali. What legal options do victims have when they experience abuse by a teacher?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims can explore several avenues. They may file a civil lawsuit against the teacher and the school district for damages. Schools have a duty to ensure student safety, and if they're found negligent, they can be held accountable.
Medina: What should victims do if they wish to report the abuse?
Nigam: Reporting the incident to law enforcement is vital. They should document everything and consider seeking legal advice promptly to understand their rights and options.
Medina: Are there any specific statutes of limitations for these cases in Texas?
Nigam: Yes, Texas has specific timeframes within which victims must file lawsuits. Generally, it's two years from the date of the abuse, but there can be exceptions, so it's important to consult with a lawyer soon.
If you or a loved one has been affected by abuse, know that you're not alone. It's vital to understand your rights and the options available to you. Contact us today for a free consultation. Our team is here to listen, support, and guide you through this challenging journey toward healing and accountability. Don’t hesitate to take that first step.
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