KILLEEN, TX — The Kempner Police Chief has been arrested for failing to report Title IX violations.
On March 11, 2020, the Killeen Police Department received information that a law enforcement officer from Texas A & M University – Central Texas failed to report complaints by a student. The officer was identified as Charles Edward Rodriguez, Kempner Police Chief.
Through an investigation, it revealed that a student enrolled at the university reported Title IX violations that were alleged to have been committed by a former employee of the institution. The student reported the incidents to Rodriguez.
Rodriguez failed to report the incidences as required by the Texas Education Code 51.255. Title IX violations include instances of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking.
The Bell County Attorney’s Office reviewed this case and a complaint was issued, charging Rodriguez with Failure to Report Certain Incidents.
A warrant was issued for his arrest and on Tuesday, June 2, 2020, Rodriguez turned himself in to the Killeen City Jail.
Justice of the Peace Cliff Coleman arraigned him and set his bond at $2000.
“Now more than ever, the integrity of the police profession requires thorough impartial investigations, regardless of the status of the accused. The Killeen Police Department stands with survivors of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking," Chief Charles Kimble said.
We reached out to the City Hall of Kempner, and they said they were unaware the chief had been arrested.
Texas A&M Central Texas released the following statement:
"We stand in alliance with survivors of Title IX issues and remind them and our public that we are committed to providing a safe learning environment for all of our students. The University's Title IX office offers support and services for those affected."
