A former instructional aide at Glenda Dawson High School in Pearland has been arrested for allegedly sending inappropriate images and videos to a 14-year-old student. Police are asking the public for help as they continue looking into more possible allegations.
According to the Pearland Police Department, 41-year-old Jerel Ward Griffin was taken into custody on March 26, on a charge of Online Solicitation of a Minor, a third-degree felony.
The investigation began on March 6, when school resource officers were notified that a student had reported receiving inappropriate images and videos from Griffin. School administrators were informed of the allegations and terminated Griffin’s employment.
Detectives later uncovered that Griffin had provided the student with a cellphone in late 2024, allowing them to communicate directly. Over the course of several months, Griffin allegedly sent the student multiple text messages, as well as explicit images and videos, in an effort to build a relationship outside of school. A forensic analysis of electronic devices confirmed the allegations.
On March 26, officers obtained an arrest warrant for Griffin and he was arrested at 11:15 a.m. and taken into custody without incident. Griffin was booked into the Pearland Police Department jail before being transferred to the Brazoria County Jail.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and are encouraging anyone with additional information to contact the Pearland Police Department Tip Line at 281-997-4211.