A teacher from Rock Hill, who has been on administrative leave and released on bond, is now confronting additional legal issues following accusations of secretly recording a staff member’s legs. The teacher, Doug MacAlpine, is employed at Castle Heights Middle School and also serves as a track coach at Rock Hill High School.
MacAlpine had recently been released on bond after facing charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor. However, he has been taken into custody again due to these new allegations. The initial charges involved six counts of second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor, related to digital files containing child sexual abuse material.
The new accusation involves video footage allegedly taken by MacAlpine, capturing a staff member wearing a dress under a table in a classroom. Rock Hill School officials have clarified that the earlier case did not involve any students from their schools. Despite this, MacAlpine was placed on leave from his roles at both Castle Heights Middle School and Rock Hill High School, a status that remains unchanged as of Thursday.
Authorities discovered the latest video on MacAlpine’s phone and are continuing to examine his electronic devices as part of their ongoing investigation. Parents, like Rachel Stone, have expressed strong emotions about the situation, emphasizing the breach of trust in educational environments.
The Community Impact
These developments have significant implications for the Rock Hill community, particularly concerning trust in educational institutions. The charges against a teacher and coach, roles often viewed as pillars of trust and integrity, have understandably stirred emotions among parents and students alike. This situation highlights the importance of thorough background checks and monitoring to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.
The ongoing investigation may lead to changes in school policies and procedures regarding staff conduct and the use of technology within school premises. It also serves as a reminder of the critical need for clear communication channels between schools and parents, to address any concerns promptly and transparently. As the investigation unfolds, the community will be looking closely at how educational authorities manage the situation and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.