Cottonwood teacher suspected of sexual conduct with minor

Nathan J. Fish | The Republic | azcentral.com

Show Caption Hide Caption How do you become a Silent Witness? What is a Silent Witness and how do you become one?

A Cottonwood teacher was arrested Thursday on suspicion of sexual conduct with a minor, officials said.

Isabella Bowman, 22, is a teacher at Dr. Daniel Bright Elementary School in Cottonwood, police said.

Bowman was arrested on suspicion of having sexual involvement with a 17-year-old male, according to Cottonwood police.

The boy was not a student at Dr. Daniel Bright and did not attend any schools in the Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District, police said, adding the relationship appears to have originated outside of any school setting, Sgt. Monica Kuhlt said.

"We do not believe there are any other victims at this time, however, this investigation is still ongoing,” said Detective Sergeant Chad Sinn, of the Cottonwood Police Department, in a press release.

Bowman was placed on administrative leave Thursday pending a full investigation for "alleged possession of marijuana" in addition to the sexual misconduct allegations, said District Superintendent Steve King, in a letter to parents.

"COCSD is committed to the safety of all students and expects all staff to adhere to the highest ethical practices and conduct when it comes to our community’s children," King said. "We must all work together, staff, students, families and community to provide a safe learning environment for children to learn, grow and thrive."

This is an ongoing investigation and Bowman may face additional charges, officials said.

READ MORE: