Custodian arrested after allegedly having sex with Dutchtown High School student

A contracted custodian at Dutchtown High School was arrested Feb. 13 in connection with an investigation into alleged sex with a 16-year-old student.

Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested 23-year-old Dequan Bellock of White Castle on charges of felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile, according to a news release.

Detectives said the suspect sent text messages and lewd photos to the juvenile for several weeks. The suspect allegedly had sex with the juvenile at least once during that time, according to the release.

The following message was sent to parents from Dutchtown Principal Matthew Monceaux: 

Dear Dutchtown High Parents and Guardians,

It was reported to us that there may have been inappropriate interactions between a contractor working on our campus and a student. We immediately contacted law enforcement, as required, and began an internal investigation at the school and district levels.

Following their investigation, the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested the contractor and charged him with carnal knowledge of a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. This is absolutely unacceptable and does not reflect the values of the Dutchtown High School community.

We are committed to the safety of our students and expect all those who work on our campus to adhere to the highest ethical practices and conduct. I want to assure you that this individual will not be allowed on any district campuses, and the district is carefully assessing all safety protocols in place for contractors at our schools.

I imagine you may have questions, but please understand there are limits to the information we can share as this is a law enforcement matter.  I do want to thank those who reported the incident and the swift action of the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Only by working as a school community can we maintain the level of safety that we want for our children and that they certainly deserve at Dutchtown High School.