WASHINGTON — A teacher at a Howard County high school has been arrested on charges of prostitution and sexual solicitation of a minor.
In a letter to parents, Glenelg High School Principal Karl Schindler said English teacher Richard Kemp was arrested in Montgomery County Thursday.
A long-term substitute will teach Kemp’s classes until further notice.
The Montgomery County police are investigating the incident.
Schindler says over the next few weeks, students can meet with the school’s student services staff if they felt they needed to talk to someone.
“Please contact your child’s school counselor at 410-313-3353 if you have concerns about your child or questions about how to talk to your child during this difficult time,” Schindler said in a statement.
Schindler also said that the school is supporting the police investigation. He asked parents to share any information that could help.
Police in Howard County said they’re investigating whether there are any similar cases involving Kemp in their jurisdiction.
It is unclear whether Kemp has an attorney to comment on the charges.
Brian Bassett, a spokesman for the Howard County public schools, issued a statement about the arrest:
The charges that have been brought against Mr. Kemp are both alarming and very upsetting. Our focus right now is to make sure that the students, staff and community at Glenelg High School have the information and supports that they need during this difficult time. We encourage students to speak to the counselors that are available at school.
Since this is still an active investigation, inquiries about the case should be directed to the Montgomery County police department. HCPSS will continue to work closely with the Montgomery County and Howard County police departments and provide any support or information that they require.
