Teacher Accused of Abuse, SNAP Responds

By Barbara Dorris
SNAP
July 3, 2012

http://www.snapnetwork.org/tx_teacher_accused_of_abuse_snap_responds

HOUSTON -

An Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston teacher is accused of touching an 8-year-old girl during private music lessons.

Lawrence Patrick, 65, was charged with three counts of indecency with a child on Monday. Prosecutors said he is accused of touching the girl at least 30 times.

The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston released the following statement about the charges:

“On Feb. 23, 2012, the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston was notified of an allegation of abuse of a minor by Lawrence Patrick, who was then a teacher at St. Rose of Lima Catholic School. School officials were notified of a report by an 8-year-old-girl who was taking private music lessons from Mr. Patrick on campus after school. The principal immediately reported the allegation to CPS and HPD and placed Mr. Patrick on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation. He has not been allowed to teach at the school since being relieved of his duties on Feb. 23.

The school and the Archdiocese fully cooperated with the civil authorities’ investigation and today learned that Mr. Patrick was charged with indecency with a child. The Archdiocese is deeply saddened and angered each time a crime of this nature is reported. We stand firm in our resolve to prevent abuse from happening to youth and are committed to providing a safe environment for all young people entrusted to our care.”