Photo: Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
A longtime Mustang High School teacher has been arrested for rape for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a student. Mustang Police Chief Rob Groseclose says the victim claims she was in an unwanted, longtime sexual relationship with science teacher Raymond Garner.
Garner has been a teacher in Mustang for 33 years. He has been suspended. Police are looking for other possible victims. They're asking anyone with information to come forward.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation says the investigation began on January 27 when a Mustang Resource Officer notified the police department of rumors that a former student had an inappropriate relationship with a Mustang High School teacher. The investigation revealed that the female student was having sexual contact with Garner, who was her science teacher and National Honor Society advisor. The acts occurred hundreds of times while the minor was a student at Mustang High School from 2014 to 2017. The sexual acts occurred at the school and at Garner’s home in Oklahoma City.
“It was incredibly brave for this young woman to admit what happened to her while a student in Mustang,” said Chief Rob Groseclose. “Often times, rape is not reported because the victim fears she or he won’t be believed. When a teacher who has influence over a student’s future is violating her in a sexual manner, it can be even more difficult to come forward. Because of her courage, an alleged sexual predator is in custody and can’t harm anyone else. I would like to thank the OSBI for their continued assistance, as well as Mustang Public schools, for their transparency and unwavering partnership”
“We are shocked, saddened, and outraged at the allegations levied against one of our long-time employees today,” said Superintendent Charles Bradley. “We will continue to cooperate fully with our law enforcement partners during their investigation and will work quickly on our internal investigation as well. We will have counselors available at Mustang High School for any staff or students who may need to speak to someone and we will support our Bronco Family as we unpack this situation together.”
Garner has been suspended by Mustang Public Schools. Following his arrest, Garner was booked into the Mustang City Jail.
Anyone who had inappropriate communications or contact with Garner while he was a teacher should contact the OSBI at (800) 522-8017 or email tips@osbi.ok.gov.