Ijamsville, MD – A 22-year-old special education aide is set to appear in court Thursday after being accused of sexually abusing at least two students at a Frederick County middle school. Authorities say John McAleer, who worked at Oakdale Middle School, faces multiple sexual offense charges following an investigation that began earlier this year.
Report Sparked by Colleague’s Concerns in Sexual Abuse Case Involving Students
According to the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, an aide reported seeing suspicious activity involving McAleer and a student in his classroom. Investigators say that the report led to the discovery of additional possible victims. Charging documents indicate that the alleged incidents occurred on April 28 and September 19 of this year.
Home Search Leads to Arrest of Teacher’s Aide
When deputies served search warrants at McAleer’s Bashford Road residence, they say he barricaded himself in a bedroom and attempted suicide with a knife. He was transported by helicopter to a Washington, D.C. hospital and later taken into custody following his release.
School District Responds to Aide’s Arrest
Frederick County Public Schools confirmed that McAleer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The district said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and providing support services for students and staff affected by the allegations.
Court Proceedings Scheduled
McAleer has been extradited back to Frederick County and is being held ahead of his bond hearing, which is scheduled for 1 p.m. Thursday. He faces two counts of sexual abuse of a minor, two counts of third-degree sexual offense involving a victim under 14, and two counts of third-degree sexual offense involving a cognitively impaired victim.
Maryland Attorney Discusses Legal Steps for Families After Abuse by School Aide
Families in Frederick County are searching for answers after a teacher’s aide was charged with abusing students at Oakdale Middle School. To understand what legal protections exist for victims and their families, we sat down with Maryland abuse lawyer Aaron Blank to discuss the legal process, potential school accountability, and the steps parents can take when a child has been harmed by someone in a position of trust.
Banville: For parents learning their child may have been harmed by a staff member, where should they start?
Blank: The first step is ensuring the child’s safety and emotional well-being. Then, families should contact law enforcement and an attorney experienced in school abuse cases to help guide them through reporting procedures and civil options for accountability.
Banville: Can schools be held responsible in cases like this?
Blank: Yes, under Maryland law, schools can face legal action if it’s shown they failed to protect students or ignored warning signs. Each situation is unique, but families have the right to pursue claims that seek financial compensation and institutional change.
Support for Families Impacted by School Abuse
Families affected by abuse in educational settings deserve guidance and support. Our legal team stands ready to help victims understand their rights and take meaningful action. If you or someone you love was harmed by a teacher’s aide or school employee, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options and take the next step toward accountability.
