Lawrence elementary school employee accused of sexually assaulting two students
An employee at Prairie Park Elementary School in Lawrence has been accused of sexually assaulting two students, Lawrence police said Monday.
Police said 60-year-old Mark Elliott Gridley, a speech and language pathologist at the school, was arrested Saturday night after a parent reported “events that occurred during the school day” on Friday. Investigators found evidence that led them to arrest Gridley that night, they said.
On Monday, police learned of a second possible victim, and police said the alleged assault also occurred Friday morning at the school.
“We are working closely with the Children’s Advocacy Center of Douglas County, USD 497 administrators, and the District Attorney’s office to ensure all expert services coordinate to uncover the complete scope of the potential harm and crimes committed,” Lawrence police said in a statement.
Prosecutors charged Gridley with a count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child and a count of kidnapping in Douglas County District Court Monday.
Court records don’t list an attorney representing Gridley.
Police said they had set up a phone line for parents who may want to report a concern about their child. Investigators can be reached by calling 785-830-7430.
“In addition, we ask that any parent who may have concerns about their child’s interaction with Gridley, please contact law enforcement before discussing it in-depth with your child,” police said.
“Lawrence Police and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Douglas County are here and ready to talk to you and your child. They are trained to address these issues while limiting the traumatic impact these discussions have on young victims.”
In a letter sent to staff and families Monday, Lawrence Public Schools interim Superintendent Jeanice Swift said police notified the district of “serious allegations” that led to the arrest.
Swift said district staff were speaking with families whose students may have had direct contact with Gridley.
“The district immediately relieved the individual of all duties,” she said. “School and district administration continue to work closely alongside our law enforcement partners to support their investigative efforts. We will keep staff and families informed as the investigation progresses.”
Swift said the district has the “highest standards for our employees, who are entrusted to care for, educate, and support our community’s children. When a safety concern is reported, our administrative team immediately investigates, including involving local law enforcement, as appropriate. Based on the findings of the investigation, we take decisive action in accordance with the law and Lawrence Board of Education Policy. Personnel matters are confidential to protect the privacy rights of the individuals involved, so we are unable to share additional information at this time.”
