Marfa, TX – Rebecca Ontiveros, a 25-year-old educator from Marfa, was arrested last Thursday and charged with an improper relationship between an educator and a student, classified as a second-degree felony carrying a potential prison sentence of 2 to 20 years. Ontiveros was booked into the Presidio County Jail and released on a $75,000 bond the following day.
Anonymous Misconduct Complaint Led to Investigation Into Teacher
According to a source familiar with the case who requested anonymity, Ontiveros allegedly developed a relationship with a high school student. The Marfa ISD district reportedly received an anonymous complaint including the initials of the accused, which corresponded to Ontiveros. This prompted the Texas Rangers to conduct interviews with both the alleged victim and Ontiveros to gather information necessary for the arrest.
Texas Rangers Secure Evidence at the School Leading to Teacher’s Arrest
Ontiveros was arrested at Marfa ISD around 1 p.m. last Thursday, as confirmed by the Presidio County Sheriff’s Department report. The source said the Texas Rangers also impounded and sealed Ontiveros’ vehicle on school grounds to preserve evidence, a move witnessed by many in the school community. Malcolm White, the Texas Ranger leading the investigation, declined to provide comments on the active case.
Marfa ISD Responds Amid Ongoing Sex Crimes Probe
The school district issued an official statement to parents Thursday evening, confirming the arrest of an employee as part of an ongoing law enforcement investigation. The district emphasized full cooperation with authorities and reaffirmed that student safety remains the top priority. No further comments will be given while the investigation continues.
Public Records Request Filed for Case Details
The Big Bend Sentinel has submitted a public records request to the Texas Rangers seeking probable cause affidavits linked to any arrest or search warrants related to this case. Updates will follow as new information becomes available.
Understanding Legal Options for Students Abused by Teachers
In light of the recent arrest of the Marfa ISD teacher, Texas sexual abuse lawyer Anjali Nigam explains the legal steps available for students who have suffered sexual assault by a teacher. She covers immediate actions victims and families can take, the types of legal claims possible, and important deadlines to be aware of when seeking accountability and support.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student is sexually assaulted by a teacher, what immediate steps should victims and families consider from a legal standpoint?
Anjali Nigam, Esq.: For anyone facing this type of trauma, the first priority should always be safety and reporting the incident to the authorities. Victims and their families can also seek a protective order and should document everything—messages, conversations, or evidence that may support the case. Consulting an attorney early ensures that rights are preserved and any legal deadlines are met.
Banville: What legal avenues are open to victims in Texas?
Nigam: Victims have the option to file criminal charges, and in many cases, there’s also the potential to bring a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator and potentially the school district if negligence is involved. Texas law also allows for compensation related to medical costs, therapy, and damages for emotional distress.
Banville: Is there a statute of limitations to keep in mind?
Nigam: Yes—Texas does have statutes of limitations for both criminal and civil cases, but some exceptions exist for minors. This is why early consultation with a knowledgeable lawyer is so important.
Support Is Available: Reach Out for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has experienced inappropriate conduct or abuse by a school employee, help is within reach. Contact us to discuss your case confidentially and learn about your legal options at no cost. Taking that first step can make all the difference in obtaining the justice and support deserved.
