The Cherry Creek School District confirmed Monday a West Middle School custodian was fired after a student accused him of inappropriate touching.
The school district said it was notified on January 29 of the accusation. The district said it immediately notified Greenwood Village police and placed the employee on leave. Denver 7 is choosing not to identify the former employee because he has not yet been arrested by police.
The district said it conducted its own investigation and fired the employee last week for violating policy.
On Monday, after Denver7 showed up at the middle school and began asking questions, the school's principal began notifying parents by phone message. It said:
This is Kate Bergles, principal of West Middle School calling with some important information. Tonight the news media will be broadcasting a story about our former maintenance worker ______ (name omitted by Denver7). On Jan. 29, 2016, the Cherry Creek School District was notified of allegations of inappropriate behavior by Mr. ____ toward a student. The district immediately notified the Greenwood Police Department and placed Mr. ____ on leave. During our own investigation we determined that Mr. ____ had violated district policy and he was terminated on Feb. 22, 2016. We are fully cooperating with the police investigation and will continue the do so while they determine how they will proceed. As of now, police have not arrested Mr. ____ or charged him with a crime. We will continue to keep you updated with any new information. The safety of our students and staff is always our highest priority. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call me.
According to Cherry Creek Schools, the custodian has worked in the district since 1997. First, at Eagle Crest High School and then at Campus Middle School in 2000. He began working at West Middle School in 2009.
Greenwood Village Police said they are investigating the case and don't yet know whether there may be additional victims.
Sign up for Denver7 email alerts to stay informed about breaking news and daily headlines.