Guidance counselor at James M. Bennett High School faces rape, child porn charges

SALISBURY, Md. – A guidance counselor at James M. Bennett High School was arrested for second degree rape, sexual misconduct with minors and soliciting child pornography on Friday.

According to police, it is alleged that Allen Edward Mitchell, of Fruitland, engaged in multiple instances of misconduct with minors, to include the criminal use of social media applications.

Reports say the 32-year-old had been previously placed on administrative leave pending this investigation.

Upon arrest, Mitchell was seen by a District Court Commissioner at a hearing in which The Office of The State’s Attorney for Wicomico County participated and argued that Mitchell be held without bond due to the serious nature of the allegations.

Subsequently, Mitchell was held without bond.

A statement from Wicomico Schools Superintendent Dr. Donna Hanlin was released Saturday morning stating she is looking to move forward.

The superintendent said, “This morning we were notified by the State’s Attorney’s Office that Allen Mitchell, a guidance counselor at James M. Bennett High School, has been arrested on numerous charges involving minors. Mitchell had previously been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the criminal investigation. Wicomico County Public Schools is working in full cooperation with the State’s Attorney’s Office and with law enforcement on this matter.”

Hanlin also said that the district’s first priority is the safety and well-being of students and staff members.

This investigation is still ongoing and The Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center is asking that anyone with information relating to these allegations or additional information are asked to contact the Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center or the Salisbury Police Department.

Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center: 410-334-6910

Salisbury Police Department: 410-548-3165

Emergency Number for Suspected Child Abuse: 410-713-3900

After Hours Emergency Contact Number: 410-548-4891