FARMINGTON, AR — Clayton Sallee, a former teacher at Farmington High School, has pleaded guilty to harassment following accusations of inappropriate behavior involving a student. The plea deal, confirmed by Washington County Prosecutor Brandon Carter, brings an end to a case that began with Sallee’s arrest in October 2024 on a more serious charge of second-degree sexual assault.
One Year of Probation and Teaching License Revoked for Accused Teacher
Sallee entered his guilty plea on July 10, just days before his scheduled trial. As part of the agreement, he was sentenced to one year of probation, ordered to have no contact with the victim, and permanently surrendered his teaching license. This effectively bars him from working in any school capacity in the future.
“This case presented a number of challenges,” Carter said. “After consultation with the victim, we prioritized preventing the defendant from ever being in a position to engage in this sort of behavior again.”
Initial Allegations of Student Sexual Assault Sparked School Investigation
Farmington School District officials first learned of the student’s allegations in September 2024. The district said it immediately contacted the Arkansas Child Maltreatment Hotline and placed Sallee on administrative leave. He did not return to campus following the report.
In a letter to parents and guardians, the district stated that an employee had been removed following accusations of inappropriate conduct with a student. His name no longer appears on the Farmington High School staff directory.
Case Closes, Public Reaction Continued
With the plea agreement finalized, the case will not proceed to trial. No further public comments have been made by Sallee’s legal team or school officials.
The agreement closes a case that raised community concerns and led to swift action by the school district and law enforcement.
What Arkansas Students Harmed by Teachers Need to Know
When a teacher abuses their position of trust, students and their families often face a complex maze of legal decisions. Attorney Joshua Gillespie, an Arkansas lawyer with years of experience handling school sexual abuse cases, shares answers to pressing questions about the rights of survivors, civil and criminal options, and how families can seek accountability after an educator crosses the line.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a student is harmed by someone in a position of authority at school, what paths are available, both legally and civilly?
Joshua Gillespie, Esq.: There are multiple avenues. Criminal charges, like in this case, are pursued by the state, but victims can also file a civil lawsuit. That allows them to seek damages for things like emotional distress, therapy costs, and other long-term impacts. Importantly, the civil process can also examine the role of the school district—whether signs were ignored or protocols were not followed.
Banville: Would actions taken by the school, such as placing a teacher on leave, protect them from legal responsibility?
Gillespie: Not necessarily. If the school had prior warning signs or failed to report concerns appropriately, they could still be liable. Reporting to proper authorities and acting swiftly is required by law, but proactive steps before abuse happens are what courts often look at.
Banville: For families affected by a situation like this, what’s your message?
Gillespie: You’re not alone, and you have every right to explore what happened and hold everyone involved accountable. Whether it’s through criminal court, civil action, or both—there are ways to take a stand and begin healing.
Take the First Step: Free Consultation Available for Victims and Families
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a teacher, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your legal rights and options is the first step toward holding those responsible accountable and beginning the healing process. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with experienced attorneys who are ready to support you through every stage. Your voice matters—reach out now and take control of your path forward.
Source
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
