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A former Dripping Springs teacher has been arrested after being accused of inappropriate communication with middle-school students, as well as providing them with nicotine and THC vapes.
Thirty-year-old Kevin James McLean, a science teacher and track coach at Dripping Springs Middle School, has received four charges of sale, distribution or display of harmful material to a minor (a class A misdemeanor) and three charges of distribution of a controlled substance to a minor (a second-degree felony), according to the Hays County Sheriff's Office. He is also accused of having sent juvenile students inappropriate images through Snapchat.
Dripping Springs ISD first learned of the alleged social media communications in April, placing McLean on leave on April 27, according to a statement from the district. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office became aware of the investigation that same day, according to Hays County Deputy Anthony Hipolito.
“Investigators learned at the time the information was discovered, the reporting party was in Austin, and a report was filed with the Austin Police Department,” said Hipolito. “Hays County Sheriff’s Office investigators immediately coordinated their efforts with the Austin Police Department and Dripping Springs ISD.”
On May 5, investigators with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office presented Affidavits of Probable Cause to Precinct 4 Justice of the Peace John Burns, who issued seven arrest warrants for McLean. At approximately 2:10 p.m., McLean was located and placed into custody without incident.
McLean was booked into the Hays County Jail, where he now awaits magistration.
Following his arrest, DSISD issued a statement regarding the former teacher, hired to teach and coach track in August of 2020. The district said he passed a national, fingerprint-based background check required for all employees.
“Dripping Springs ISD has actively cooperated with law enforcement and will continue with its own investigation,” the statement read. “On April 27, DSISD placed Mr. McLean on leave and immediately removed his access to DSISD campuses and students related to alleged improper social media posts. Mr. McLean will not be returning to any campus or DSISD property, as DSISD had previously received and accepted his resignation unrelated to the recent allegations.”
“Because there is an active investigation with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and the Austin Police Department, Dripping Springs ISD is not available to provide further comment at this time,” the statement continued. “Dripping Springs ISD is committed to the safety and security of all students. The district continues to partner with law enforcement agencies to help ensure the safety of the children in the Dripping Springs community and all students across Texas.”
Anyone with more information is asked to contact Sergeant Mark Opiela with the Hays County Sheriff’s Office at (512) 393-7896. Anonymous tips can be submitted with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-324-8466 or via P3tips.com. Tips can also be submitted on the Hays County Sheriff's Office app.
