CENTERTON (KFSM) — A teacher at Life Way Christian School in Centerton was at the Benton County Jail Monday (Feb. 29) after he was arrested over the weekend on suspicion of sexual assault.
Richard Thomas Riley, 34, was arrested Saturday (Feb. 27) after the Benton County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes Division began investigating sexually explicit messages and nude photos that were exchanged between Riley and a 16-year-old student, according to Riley’s probable cause affidavit.
The teen was interviewed by investigators and told them she sent nude photos to Riley and had sexual intercourse with him on several occasions at his home, the affidavit states. The teen said the sexual intercourse was consensual and the two were in an exclusive relationship, according to the affidavit.
Following interviews with investigators, Riley admitted he had sent the teen nude photos and had had sexual intercourse with her on multiple occasions, the affidavit states.
Riley is facing charges of first-degree sexual assault and distributing, possessing, or viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child, according to the affidavit.
Riley was a teacher at Life Way Christian School since 2013 and was terminated the same day he was arrested, according to Life Way Administrator Luke Bowers. He taught 9th grade physical science and 10th grade world history, as well as coached track, Bowers said.
All employees at the school go through interviews with several administrators, have their references checked and undergo a background check, according to Bowers.
Bowers also released the following statement:
“I do want to thank our local law enforcement for their swift response and how they have handled every detail. We are deeply saddened by this event and we are trusting God to give strength, peace, healing, and unity during this time.”
Jail records show Riley’s bond has been set at $50,000 and his next court date is scheduled for April 11.
