A Texas school principal wrote a shocking email saying she and her family are cutting ties with her husband after he was arrested with a huge collection of child porn.
James Stone, 53, who teaches at Tompkins High School in Katy, was taken into custody over ten counts of possessing and producing what police say are thousands of images involving minors. Police say he admitted to producing the disgusting images.
His wife, Melinda Stone, is the principal of Taylor High School. She wrote two letters – one to families and staff and another just to staff – in which she confirmed her knowledge of the charges and announced she was disavowing her husband, whom she said did something ‘disgraceful’.
‘My family and I are deeply disappointed in his actions and thus we do not have any plans to be involved in James’ criminal proceedings as he navigates the next steps,’ Melinda wrote in the email to staff.
James Stone is accused of not just possessing child pornography but taking photos at Tompkins High School, as well as various local swimming pools and other places in Katy.
James Stone, 53, who teaches at Tompkins High School in Katy, was taken into custody on ten counts of possessing and producing what police say are thousands of images involving minors. Police say he admitted to producing the disgusting images
James’ wife Melinda (pictured left) sent out multiple emails Monday completely cutting ties with her husband
Police claimed that the images were distributed on ‘the dark web’ and said he admitted to producing it himself.
One student, junior Savannah Lacks, says she’s now reconsidering her interactions with Stone.
‘I had him as a study hall teacher,’ she told ABC13. ‘It was really weird. He would always tell me to come over to the desk.’
‘I didn’t personally know him, so I was just like, scary for our community, especially Tompkins. But I mean, it’s good that they finally got revealed,’ added Anton Freese.
Melinda Stone is quickly distancing herself from her husband, having written the emails to both staff and parents on Monday.
‘Earlier this morning, you received a copy of the message below that I sent to my staff regarding a criminal incident concerning James Stone,’ she wrote in a letter addressed to families and staff.
‘I believe it is important for our parents to be aware of the information that is being shared with staff concerning this matter. I understand that you may have questions or concerns and I am available to speak with parents who wish to do so. As mentioned to staff below, law enforcement are continuing to investigate,’ she continued.
‘I apologize for any disruption this disgraceful incident may have caused. Please know that I am fully committed to serving Taylor High School students, staff and school community. An update will be provided by the District as information becomes available.’
Stone’s wife Melinda, the principal of Taylor High School. She wrote two letters – one to families and staff and another just to staff – in which she confirmed her knowledge of the charges and announced she was disavowing her husband, whom she said did something ‘disgraceful’
One student, junior Savannah Lacks, says she’s now reconsidering her interactions with Stone
However, she went even further in an email addressed only to Taylor High School staff.
‘I am sure that many of you are aware of the incident involving my husband, James Stone,’ she wrote.
‘James was arrested this morning for possession of pornographic materials. His arrest and involvement in this criminal activity was unbeknownst to me or those closest to him.’
That’s when she dropped the hammer on her husband: ‘My family and I are deeply disappointed in his actions and thus we do not have any plans to be involved in James’ criminal proceedings as he navigates the next steps.
‘It also important for me to confirm with you that I, nor any other family member, is implicated in James’ criminal activity.’
She also said that the incident is still under investigation but that her family will cooperate with any requests from police.
‘Providing a safe and secure learning environment is and will continue to be the District’s and my top priority. An update will be provided by the District as information becomes available.’
Tompkins High, where James Stone taught, said in a letter to parents that he’s been away from campus over the past week and will not return.
James Stone is accused of not just possessing child pornography but taking photos at Tompkins High School, as well as various local swimming pools and other places in Katy
Melinda Stone is quickly distancing herself from her husband in emails to both staff and parents Monday
James Stone is in custody at the Fort Bend County Jail as the investigation continues.
He’s scheduled to make his first court appearance Tuesday, according to Click 2 Houston.
Police believe there may be many more victims and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.