By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com
A Prince George’s County, Md. teacher, Amir Johnson, on June 26, was indicted on several charges of sexual abuse against a minor. The 18-count indictment contains charges of sexual abuse of a minor and rape.
Between January and April, the victim allegedly had several sexual encounters with Johnson, per the state’s attorney’s office.
“This indictment reflects our office’s efforts to protect our most vulnerable residents, including our children,” says Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Tara Jackson in a statement on June 26. “Sexual abuse is an extremely personal violation against someone, especially a child, and we take these allegations very seriously. We will continue to work collaboratively with our law enforcement partners to ensure cases like this are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.”
Johnson of Bowie, Md. worked as a social studies teacher at Parkdale High School in Riverdale Park, Md. until he was suspended. According to Prince George’s County Public Schools, he was hired in October 2023.
“Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is committed to the safety and well-being of our students and staff,” said Lynn McCawley, senior public information specialist for PGCPS in a statement to the AFRO. “When schools receive reports of suspected child abuse or neglect, staff is immediately removed to investigate the matter and the allegation is reported to Child Protective Services. PGCPS is taking this matter seriously and fully supporting law enforcement in their ongoing investigation.”
PGCPS said they will provide no further details about the matter at this time due it being a personal matter.
The state’s attorney’s office also stated that, in light of the sensitive nature of the situation and the victim’s age, no further details will be released at this time.