'Very Disturbing': BCPS Responds to Towson Sex Abuse Allegations

The Towson High School teacher who allegedly had an inappropriate relationship with a student has been placed on administrative leave, according to a statement from Baltimore County Public Schools.

Richard James Hanna, 36, is a science teacher who has been employed by Baltimore County Public Schools for eight years.

Related: Towson High School Teacher Faces Sex Charges

Hanna was charged this week with sex abuse of a minor, second-degree child abuse and a fourth-degree sex offense after police said he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a female student, allegedly driving her to public parks and touching her over her clothing.

Baltimore County Public Schools issued the following statement Monday afternoon regarding the charges:

“The allegations and charges are very disturbing and our main concern is with the well-being of the student and her family. This alleged behavior will not be tolerated in Baltimore County Public Schools, and due to the seriousness of the allegations, the principal and our human resources staff took immediate action once notified. The employee was placed on administrative leave and we continue to work with police as the case moves forward.”