Calhoun County Teacher and Commissioner Facing 50 Sexual Abuse Charges
Calhoun County is reeling this week after a shocking case of alleged sexual abuse. Jacob Daniel McCumbers, 39, a first-grade teacher at Arnoldsburg Elementary School and a recently elected county commissioner, has been arrested on 50 counts of sexual abuse.
The allegations involve a young victim who says the abuse began before he turned 10 and continued for nearly a decade.
Sadly, cases where someone in a position of authority exploits their power to sexually abuse children are too common. Parents, colleagues, and neighbors are grappling with the betrayal of trust, and the community is left asking how this abuse could go undetected for so long.
Allegations and Arrest
According to WCHS, a criminal complaint was filed in Calhoun County Magistrate Court. The alleged victim disclosed the abuse during a forensic interview conducted by the West Virginia State Police Child Victim Unit.
The victim stated that McCumbers assaulted him repeatedly over 8 to 9 years. Along with that, he threatened him to stay silent. The complaint painted a disturbing picture of prolonged predatory behavior, as the abuse may have occurred approximately 50 separate times.
McCumbers was arrested Saturday morning (September 13th) and arraigned on the charges. His bond was set at $100,000, and he posted the same day. As of now, he is in home confinement and barred from contacting the victim or any other juveniles.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 2nd before Magistrate Richard Postalwait. McCumbers has stated that he will wait for legal counsel before proceeding with the hearing.
Community and Official Response
The Calhoun County Commission released a statement by attorney Kevin Harris.
“We must have the moral courage in this community to take a stand against those who attempt to harm, degrade, harass, or assault any of our citizens, especially our children,” Harris said. The commission emphasized that it would cooperate fully with law enforcement and assist victims.
Calhoun County Schools confirmed that McCumbers has been removed from his teaching role. Under the law, he was immediately relieved of his duties once the investigation began.
The district stated that personnel laws prevent them from revealing specific actions regarding his employment. However, the West Virginia Department of Education has been notified. His teaching license is expected to be suspended pending the outcome of the criminal case.
The Ripple Effect on the Community
Crimes like these do more than harm the direct victims; they shake the entire community.
When someone in a position of trust abuses a child, families may feel unsafe sending their children to school. For many, the emotional and social impact can linger long after the criminal case begins. But the law offers avenues for accountability and protection.
These options help to rebuild that sense of safety.
Legal Help Makes a Difference
Unfortunately, incidents like this happen far too often, and families are left unsure where to turn.
This is where you need the help of experienced legal guidance. At Hendrickson & Long, PLLC, we know the far-reaching effects of abuse on victims and their communities. We provide guidance on civil legal options, including claims for therapy, medical bills, and other damages.
With legal help, we can hold institutions and offenders accountable. This signals to the community that abuse will not be tolerated. With that, the law becomes a tool for individual justice and restoring trust and safety in the local community.
We Are Here To Help You Take the First Step
If you or a loved one has been affected by this case or by any other incident of sexual abuse or misconduct, reach out to Hendrickson & Long, PLLC. Our team provides compassionate guidance on how to move forward with your case.
We have experience handling sensitive claims like this. Our team helps families pursue accountability while supporting them through each stage of the recovery and justice process.
