Former Educator Faces Multiple Child Sex Crime Charges in Missouri
Allegations Surface Against Cedric Gerald
ST. LOUIS — A former educator with a long history in multiple school districts, Cedric Gerald, 48, has been arrested and charged with a series of serious child sex crimes. Gerald, who recently served as the principal at Westview Middle School in Missouri, is currently being held in jail on a $1 million cash-only bond. His charges stem from allegations brought forth by four students, who have reported various forms of inappropriate conduct, including sexual exploitation and child pornography.
Details of the Charges
Cedric Gerald faces several grave accusations:
- Second-degree sexual trafficking of a child under 18
- Sexual exploitation of a minor
- Possession of child pornography
- Attempted statutory sodomy concerning individuals under 14
- Sexual misconduct involving a child under 15
- Two counts of second-degree statutory sodomy
- Sexual contact with a student
Investigators have indicated that Gerald may have engaged in these behaviors from January 2023 until May 2025, with reports involving inappropriate video calls, messages, and sexual acts occurring at school.
Previous Employment and History
Gerald’s past includes over a decade of service in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools in North Carolina, where he held various roles, including English teacher and literacy coach, from 2000 until 2013. Documentation obtained by WCNC Charlotte does not show any prior disciplinary actions during his tenure there. He also served as a high school principal in the Ferguson Florissant School District from July 2016 until October 2024.
Call for Other Victims to Come Forward
With Gerald’s extensive interaction with students, detectives believe there may be additional victims. Local law firms, Simon Law and the O’Brien Law Firm, are currently representing six victims from multiple districts and have urged anyone with information to contact the police. “It is deeply troubling that someone in a position of trust could take advantage of vulnerable children,” remarked attorney Mary Simon.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The allegations against Gerald have caused significant concern among local parents and educational institutions. The Riverview Gardens School District—as well as other institutions linked to his employment—faces scrutiny regarding hiring practices and oversight. Attorney Grant Boyd highlighted the importance of recognizing “red flags” to prevent such abuses in the future.
As this case continues to develop, authorities encourage anyone who may be a victim or has relevant information to reach out for assistance. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
For those dealing with issues of domestic violence, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 800-799-7233 or by texting START to 88788.
Conclusion
Cedric Gerald’s arrest underscores the significant responsibility schools hold in protecting their students and the imperative need for thorough investigation and accountability in the education system. As this troubling case unfolds, the community remains on alert for any further developments.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.