White County Schools
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Published – April 15, 2024
A 27-year-old middle school teacher in White County Schools has been arrested and charged with three accounts of rape of a child after alleged inappropriate behavior with a child.
According to a local news outlet, Austin Damon Allen was presented to the White County Grand Jury on January 8, 2024, and was indicted on the following charges:
- Two counts of continuous sexual abuse of a child
- Four counts of rape of a child
- Two counts of soliciting sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means
- One count of especially aggravated sexual exploitation
Allen was originally taken into custody in Cookeville in October 2023. As the investigation progressed, further evidence solidified the initial suspicions and justified additional criminal charges—leading to more victims.
Once White County Director of Schools had heard of the allegations, Allen was suspended from his position. White County Schools released the following statement regarding the situation:
“White County Schools is shocked and deeply saddened by the news surrounding a former middle school teacher, and our thoughts, prayers, and efforts are with the affected children, their families, and our school community. From the initial report, the teacher was suspended, removed from campus, and subsequently had his employment terminated. The school district is fully cooperating with authorities in their investigation and will work diligently to serve our community to navigate the waters in the wake of this deplorable incident.”
“If anyone has information pertaining to this case, please contact the White County Sheriff’s Department. If you or a child are in need of counseling services, please contact the school system. This chapter is not a reflection of our school district and the incredible employees who lovingly serve students each day, and together, we will rebuild the trust and integrity that was damaged by the acts of one individual. As this is an ongoing investigation, the district has no further comment at this time.”
Located in Sparta, Tennessee, the White County School District is comprised of eight schools and serves approximately 4,000 students.
