Cowley County Attorney’s Office Files Sexual Battery Charges Against ACHS Teacher

The Cowley County Attorney’s Office has filed charges against an Ark City High School teacher for sexual battery.

According to a news release from the Ark City Police Department Thursday morning, Jacob Sumpter, 38, is the teacher charged. Sumpter is listed as an ag teacher on the school district’s staff directory.

As previously reported, Ark City High School administration contacted the ACPD on Dec. 15 regarding an alleged incident reported by a student.

An 18-year-old female student reported to the administration and later to police that a teacher at the high school had touched her inappropriately without her consent.

Officers from ACPD conducted a complete investigation, including numerous interviews. The case was presented to the Cowley County Attorney’s office for review of possible charges.

Sumpter is scheduled to have a court appearance on Jan. 30 at 9 a.m. in Arkansas City District Court.

A statement from USD 470 Thursday just before noon said Sumpter remains on paid administrative leave and that a “long-term” substitute teacher has been assigned and students will get to continue their classes as planned.

“While we have been shocked and devastated by this situation, we remain dedicated to providing a safe learning environment for our students,’ the school district said. “Their safety and well-being are our top priority.”

No arrest has been made in this case, according to ACPD Chief Eric Burr. Sumpter was served a summons through his attorney, according to Burr Thursday.