Mesquite, TX - Another educator in North Texas has been arrested following accusations of sexual misconduct involving children. Court records show Chad Beery, a Mesquite ISD teacher, was taken into custody in Rockwall County last week and charged with two counts connected to child pornography.
Beery posted a $750,000 bond and was released from jail on November 6, according to official court filings.
District Confirms Suspension and Ongoing Investigation
Beery teaches at Mesquite Academy, an alternative learning campus serving middle and high school students through accelerated programs. Following his arrest, Mesquite ISD issued a statement announcing that Beery has been suspended without pay and is under investigation by the Texas Education Agency.
“Prior to his arrest, Mesquite ISD was unaware of any concerns or allegations of inappropriate behavior involving Mr. Beery,” the district’s statement read. Officials confirmed he will not be returning to the district.
It remains unclear whether the allegations are connected to students at Mesquite Academy. CBS News Texas has requested additional details from Rockwall Police investigators.
Beery’s Employment and Broader Pattern of Educator Arrests
Beery has worked for Mesquite ISD since 2018. As of Monday morning, his name still appeared on Mesquite Academy’s online staff directory, listing him as an Academy Option Teacher. A district spokesperson declined to comment further, pointing to privacy laws.
Beery’s arrest adds to a troubling trend in North Texas. Since early October, eight educators or coaches in the region have been arrested or placed on leave for criminal cases, six of them facing felony charges. Cases include allegations from Mansfield, Anna, and Wylie school districts.
Among them is former Celina ISD teacher and coach Caleb Elliott, accused of secretly photographing or recording boys as they changed in a high school locker room.
Understanding Victims’ Legal Options in Teacher Misconduct Cases
When allegations of sexual abuse surface within a school setting, families often face confusion and uncertainty about their next steps. In this interview, Texas sexual abuse lawyer Anjali Nigam goes into detail about the legal options available to victims harmed by teacher misconduct, including potential civil claims, school liability, and the actions families can take to protect their rights.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When allegations like these arise at a school, what legal steps are available to victims and their families?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: Victims can bring civil claims against both the individual accused and, in some cases, the school district if there’s evidence of negligence in hiring, supervision, or reporting. Texas law allows survivors to pursue compensation for emotional trauma, counseling costs, and other related damages.
Banville: How important is early legal representation in these cases?
Nigam: It’s critical to act quickly. Experienced counsel can preserve evidence, guide families through criminal proceedings, and file civil actions within the required statutes of limitation. Schools and their insurers often begin their own investigations early, so victims need legal support from the start to ensure their rights are protected.
Banville: What should families do first if they suspect misconduct?
Nigam: Report the suspected abuse to local law enforcement and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, then reach out to a qualified attorney familiar with educator misconduct cases. Prompt reporting helps protect students and strengthens future legal claims.
Legal Help for Victims and Families
Victims of educator misconduct and their families do not have to face this alone. Our experienced legal team is here to explain your rights, guide you through the process, and fight for the accountability you deserve. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help protect your family’s future.
