A teacher at Heritage High School in Leesburg has been charged with a felony in Frederick County for proposing sex acts with a minor under 15 years of age. The staff member has been suspended from his role at Loudoun County Public Schools without pay.
William Cody Smallwood of Front Royal was arrested on April 5 for using online platforms to communicate with a child younger than 15 with intent to expose himself, according to a grand jury indictment WJLA obtained. The offense occurred on July 6, according to court documents.
According to an email Fox5 said was sent to Heritage High School parents from principal Jeff Adam, the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office notified Loudoun County Public Schools in August 2023 that Smallwood was involved in a criminal investigation. At that time, he was placed on leave.
“The arrest is not related to LCPS schools or students in any way,” the email read.
When Smallwood was arrested on April 5, LCPS changed Smallwood’s leave to unpaid status.
The email directed those with additional information or questions to contact the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office. Because this is an ongoing investigation, the letter said the school cannot comment further.
“We are not currently part of the criminal proceedings and do not have any additional information that can be shared, but we will continue to update you as we know more,” Adam said in a second email.
“Please be assured that we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing learning environment for our students and that all staff are expected to adhere to the highest ethical practices and conduct,” Adam wrote.
Smallwood, who was released on bond on Monday, has a court hearing scheduled for Thursday, April 11.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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