Houston, TX - Court records indicate an 8-year-old student told investigators he was sexually assaulted multiple times by Edward Marquise Bell, a former employee of Gregory-Lincoln Education Center. Charging documents accuse Bell of taking the child into a private room during several alleged incidents and showing him inappropriate videos on a computer.
Investigators say the child reported that the abuse occurred 24 different times while he was at school. Bell now faces a charge of aggravated sexual assault of a child under 14 — a first-degree felony in Texas that carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison if convicted.
Child Reported the Abuse After Behavioral Changes
According to the child’s grandmother, her grandson’s demeanor and personality began to change over several months before he shared what had happened in 2024. She said he eventually broke down crying, pleading with her not to tell anyone because he was afraid of Bell.
"He started to cry, and he begged me, ‘Please don’t tell him,’" she told reporters. "But Mr. Bell was the one that touched me and hurt me. And he was afraid to go back to school."
The grandmother described ongoing trauma for her grandson, recalling a moment when he suffered a panic attack after thinking he saw Bell at a park. "He started crying and said, ‘Let’s leave, let’s leave,’" she said. The family removed the child from Gregory-Lincoln Education Center and transitioned him into a new school setting with therapy and special accommodations.
Investigation and Ongoing Questions
The child later participated in a forensic interview at the Children’s Assessment Center, where police say he provided further details about the alleged abuse. Investigators report that the child clearly identified Bell as the perpetrator.
Houston ISD Issues Statement
In a statement, Houston ISD said:
“The individual is no longer employed by HISD. The HISD Police Department investigated the matter and filed criminal charges, which resulted in the former employee’s arrest. The District is deeply disturbed by these allegations, takes such matters extremely seriously, and remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students and staff.”
The grandmother says she hopes other families will stay alert and engaged with their children:
“Pay attention to the details. Ask your children. Gain their trust and protect them. Listen to them.”
Understanding Legal Options After Teacher Abuse
When a child reports sexual abuse by a teacher, families can feel overwhelmed by fear, confusion, and unanswered questions about what to do next. Experienced Texas sexual abuse lawyer Anjali Nigam goes over the legal options available to families, how civil and criminal cases differ, and the steps parents can take to protect their children while holding both perpetrators and institutions accountable.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a child is sexually abused by a teacher in Texas, what are the main legal paths a family can consider?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Families often have two tracks: the criminal case handled by prosecutors, and a separate civil case where they can seek compensation from the perpetrator and, in some situations, the school district or other entities whose failures may have contributed to the abuse. The civil case is about accountability and resources for long-term care and recovery.
Banville: How soon should a family reach out to a lawyer after a disclosure like this?
Nigam: As soon as the child is safe and has begun receiving support, contacting an attorney can be very important. Evidence needs to be preserved, deadlines under Texas law can be complicated, and a lawyer can coordinate with law enforcement while helping protect the child from unnecessary retraumatization in the process.
Banville: What kind of support can a civil attorney provide beyond filing a lawsuit?
Nigam: A trauma-informed attorney can help connect families with counseling resources, guide them through interactions with investigators and schools, and explain each step in plain language so they feel in control. The goal is not just a legal result, but helping the child and family access the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Banville: What is your message to families who are unsure whether they have a case?
Nigam: If a child reports abuse, families should trust their instincts and ask questions. A confidential consultation can help them understand their rights, the potential responsibility of the school or other institutions, and what steps they can take now to protect their child and others. They do not have to navigate this alone.
Take Action Now – Free Consultation Available
Families facing the aftermath of teacher sexual abuse deserve strong advocacy and clear guidance through every legal step. Contact our team today for a free, confidential consultation to explore your rights, preserve evidence, and build a path toward accountability and recovery for your child. Don’t wait—reach out now to protect your family and hold those responsible accountable.
