News 12 at 11, June 3, 2007

AUGUSTA, Ga. --- New information about a former Butler High School band director arrested for sex charges involving three underage female students. We're talking about Anthony Shelton. News 12 got a copy of his records from the Richmond County Board of Education. For the first time tonight we hear from Mr. Shelton, and from some students who defend him.

In this thick stack of papers, you can find both sides to the case against Anthony Shelton, the former Butler High band director. He's accused of molesting a 16-year-old student in the band room but these documents reveal far more pieces to this puzzle.

"Our main concern of course, if these children are being victimized is our responsibility to bring that person to justice," Sgt. Richard Roundtree said.

That's because there could be more to this than a relationship with just one student. News 12 has obtained Shelton's entire file from the Richmond County Board of Education. This is a copy of his resignation letter. He called it quits March 28th but didn't give a reason.

But another document shows school leaders investigated "inappropriate sexual remarks to a female student regarding a flute." But others supported Shelton and school leaders couldn't prove it one way or another.

"You have to look at the sensitive nature of this case. Because it is public opinion, you have involving a public figure being a school teacher involved in many children's life. So we want to be prudent in the investigation that will go forward and cover all the bases of the case, that every one is treated fairly," Sgt. Roundtree said.

We are also learning of allegations from other students. One says he made a pass at her, and there are a few allegations about other things Mr. Shelton said that we can't even show you because they are too explicit. But that's not the whole story.

"Now we know there's always going to be people on both sides of the fence. And that's understandable, but as law enforcement, our job is to protect the children," Sgt. Roundtree said.

Mr. Shelton says he's innocent, and he's not the only one. According to this file, investigators "questioned five of the students in Mr. Shelton's class. They support his statement." They believe the girls made it all up.

News 12 also has five letters of recommendation for Mr. Shelton. They all pretty much say the same thing, "his honesty and candor make it a pleasant work environment." Glowing recommendation after glowing recommendations. Two very different sides, to a story with some very serious charges, for a man who already had to give up his career in the classroom.

Richmond County investigators say Shelton is still in jail awaiting indictment. That means a judge can't even set a trial date yet. The investigation is still on-going because there were so many witnesses to interview. Sgt. Roundtree says it's a lengthy process.