(Monroeville, PA) Gateway High School band director James Hoeltje is facing charges of selling or furnishing alcohol to a minor.
According to a criminal complaint, an 18-year-old described to police several incidents involving Hoeltje that began back in January of this year.
The teen who was a Gateway student at the time told police that during a trip to Virginia, Hoeltje “molested” her while they both drank alcohol. The teen told police Hoeltje remained in contact with her following graduation. He has not been charged with any sexual offenses.
On Monday, a note went home to district parents, informing them an investigation of a high school employee was underway. The note read, “Due to the nature of these disturbing charges, the employee will remain on suspension and the district will proceed with termination as dictated by PA School.”
According to the district’s website, Hoeltje became the band director in 2016.
Band camp, which was set to start on Monday, was postponed following the charges against Hoeltje.