MURRELLS INLET -A St. James Middle School teacher was arrested Wednesday by Horry County Police officers.
Norbert Richard Ryan, 32, is charged with 2nd degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor. These allegations stem from a reported sexual relationship between Ryan and a student, according to Horry County police.
Teal Britton, spokesperson for Horry County Schools, told News13 a school administrator escorted Ryan out of the school, and officers arrested him later at his home. He is currently behind bars at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center.
Dr. Cynthia Elsberry, superintendent of Horry County Schools, said Ryan is an 8th grade social studies teacher, and also coaches football for the school. Dr. Elsberry said the student in question was in Ryan's class this year and last year.
"We want to reassure (the students), we want to listen to their concerns and address those so they walk away from school today knowing the facts we're able to share with them," said Dr. Elsberry.
School leaders told News13 parents and students at the school complained about conduct involving Ryan, and those complaints led to his arrest.
"We took swift action, whenever there are allegations of a serious nature, such as this," said Dr. Elsberry. "We don't wait around. It's very easy to let your imagination run wild. This did not occur at the school, (but) regardless, what this teacher is alleged to have done is heinous," she added.
Ryan is placed on paid leave, but he could be terminated as soon as Monday night's school board meeting.
Count on News13 for the very latest concerning this developing story.
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