Charter School Teacher Charged With Molesting Children
As reported by the Contra Costa DA’s office, 35-year-old California teacher, Anessa Paige Gower, has been charged with twenty-nine counts of molesting children after investigators say she had a perpetrated sexual actions with kids, engaged in unwanted touching, and had sent, on several occasions, sexually explicit photographs to minors through online platforms.
The alleged abuses took place between 2021 and 2022, during which prosecutors say Gower engaged in “many” sexual activities with a number of young children.
Gower has been dismissed without pay from her position at the school.
For help with responding to child sex abuse in California, please consider connecting with the California child sex abuse lawyer at Beck Law P.C.
Did the Teacher Have a Criminal History of Molesting Children?
Generally speaking, a criminal history of molesting children would refer to any past convictions an individual may have had, but it could also include arrests that did not result in a conviction, as well as charges that were ultimately dropped. In the case of the teacher in question, in 2004, she was issued a speeding ticket in California. In 2009, she was cited for an infraction in Arkansas. She was cited for driving without a seat belt and not providing the officer with proof of motor insurance.
She was asked to pay a fine in both instances. These are the only records of law enforcement contact with Gower.
Minor infractions, also known as petty offenses, are not classified as “criminal.” As such, we can say that there was practically no recorded history that may have raised red flags and pointed out this teacher as a child abuser.
Is It Possible To Identify Teachers Who Are Likely To Molest Children?
There is no surefire way to identify teachers who are likely to be child molesters. However, there are certain behaviors and characteristics that may serve as red flags. For example, a teacher who frequently spends time alone with students or demonstrates an inappropriate interest in children may be more likely to engage in sexual misconduct. Additionally, educators who have a history of sexual abuse, are attracted to minors, and have poor boundaries with students, are typically more likely to offend again.
Teaching Your Children How to Identify Dangerous Situations of Sexual Abuse
One of the most important things that parents can do to protect their children from child abusers is to teach them how to identify potentially dangerous situations and how to react if they find themselves in one. It is also important for parents to talk to their children about abuse, what it is, and how to get help if they need it. Children should be taught that it is never their fault if they are abused and that they should never keep abuse a secret.
Future: What Might Happen Next in This Case?
While it is still unclear what will happen next in the case of Anessa Paige Gower, there are a few things that could potentially take place. One possibility is that the teacher could be charged with child sexual abuse, a crime that can carry severe penalties.
Additionally, as the details of the case are still unfolding, it is possible that this could lead to further charges being filed against the teacher as even more victims come forward.
While she surely will be punished if convicted, this case is a reminder that child sexual abuse can happen anywhere and that parents should be vigilant about keeping their children safe.
Beck Law P.C.
Do you know how many children are sexually assaulted each year in the US? Too many. That’s where Beck Law P.C. comes in. We’re child sexual assault attorneys in California who are committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve. We know the law inside and out, and we’re here to fight for our clients. If you or a loved one has been a victim of child sexual assault, please contact us today.
