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Adrian Buruato, a former Head Baseball Coach at Itasca ISD located at 123 N College St, Itasca, TX 76055, was arrested on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, by the Hill County Sheriff's Office. The arrest follows an investigation into allegations of sexual assault involving a female student, according to KCENTV.
The allegations first came to light on Monday, March 10, 2025, when Itasca ISD personnel, along with the district’s School Resource Officer (SRO), received a complaint from the student. According to the district, the incident allegedly occurred during the 2023-2024 school year while Buruato was employed by Itasca ISD. The Hill County Sheriff’s Office reported that the victim was a 15-year-old female student at the time of the alleged offense.
Buruato worked for Itasca ISD from July 2023 to June 2024, holding several positions, including Head Baseball Coach, Assistant Football Coach, and Middle School Social Studies teacher.
Superintendent Tonya Harris issued a statement emphasizing the district’s commitment to student safety. "Upon receiving the complaint, we immediately notified the Hill County Sheriff’s Office and cooperated fully with their investigation," Harris said. She also confirmed that Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Karen Molina was notified, as Buruato is currently employed by Fort Worth ISD.
The Hill County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Buruato turned himself in on March 12 after warrants were issued for his arrest. He faces charges of Indecency with a Child-Sexual Contact and Improper Relationship Between an Educator and Student. His bonds were set at $300,000.
Authorities have indicated that the investigation remains ongoing and have expressed concerns about the possibility of additional victims. The Hill County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with further information related to the case to come forward.
Itasca ISD stated that maintaining a secure and supportive environment for students remains a top priority within their schools.
Students who experience sexual abuse by a teacher face devastating emotional and legal challenges. For many, understanding their rights and the steps they can take to hold perpetrators accountable can feel overwhelming. In an effort to clarify these options, attorney Anjali Nigam, a seasoned Texas sexual assault lawyer, provides valuable information on both the criminal and civil legal avenues available to victims and their families.
Editor Darla Medina: Attorney Nigam, thank you for joining us. What legal options are available for students who experience sexual assault by a teacher?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Thank you for having me, Darla. Victims of sexual assault by an educator have both criminal and civil legal paths they can pursue. On the criminal side, law enforcement investigates and prosecutors handle charges like Indecency with a Child or Improper Relationship Between an Educator and Student. These charges can result in significant penalties for the perpetrator, such as prison time and a permanent criminal record.
Medina: And on the civil side, what steps can victims and their families take?
Nigam: Civil lawsuits provide an avenue for victims to seek damages for the harm they've endured. This could include emotional distress, therapy costs, and other related expenses. Families can also explore whether the school district or administrators failed to act appropriately, especially if signs of misconduct were ignored. Accountability can extend beyond the individual perpetrator in some cases.
Medina: What would you say to victims who are hesitant to come forward?
Nigam: It's understandable to feel afraid or uncertain, but coming forward can help ensure safety for others and give victims a sense of empowerment. There are strong confidentiality protections in place for minors, and resources like victim advocates and counseling services are available to provide support throughout the legal process.
Medina: Thank you, Attorney Nigam, for clarifying the options available and offering guidance during such a difficult time.
Nigam: Of course, Darla. It's always important to remind victims that they are not alone and there are people ready to help.
If your child has been sexually abused by a teacher, you don’t have to face this battle alone. Our team is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. We offer free consultations to help families understand their legal rights and explore the options available to hold perpetrators accountable. Contact us today to take the first step in protecting your family and seeking the justice your child deserves.
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