Local teacher and coach arrested on molestation complaint

Tulsa Police arrest a staff member at one of the city's largest churches, on a complaint of molesting a child. <br><br>News on Six crime reporter Lori Fullbright says officers picked up 25-year-old

Monday, March 25th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Tulsa Police arrest a staff member at one of the city's largest churches, on a complaint of molesting a child.

News on Six crime reporter Lori Fullbright says officers picked up 25-year-old Aaron Thompson at his home late Monday afternoon; he's been an elementary school teacher and physical education coach at Grace Fellowship Christian School for five years.

Some parents met with church leaders on March 12, bringing forward the allegations. After that meeting, the church suspended the teacher and barred him from campus and began its own investigation. Tulsa Police say they weren't notified until nine days later on March 21st. They say that made it harder for them to contact witnesses and track down information. Although at this time, they believe they have documented improper conduct with six boys between 8 and 15 years old. Tulsa Police Sgt Wayne Allen, "Mr. Thompson has been a physical education coach for five years and for that reason and for other things learned in the investigation, we believe there could be many more victims than just the six we've talked about."

Grace Fellowship says it won't be doing any interviews, but sent out a statement saying the safety of its students has always been its top priority and hope the investigation will be swift and thorough and will cooperate. They offer the child and family support and resources and will respect the confidentiality of the student and the employee.

If additional victims are out there, the police ask them to call the Child Crisis unit at 669-6504. The boys told detectives the incidents occurred during church services and at the teacher's home.