Lawyer says Garza lacks investigation details
MOSES LAKE — Moses Lake High School teacher Alex Garza claims he is lacking specific details regarding an investigation into his relationship with a female student.
Garza, 25, was placed on paid administrative leave May 2, the same day district staff became aware of allegations against Garza and initiated an investigation through Canfield & Associates.
The district contacted the police department May 3, as a result of information uncovered during the investigation, said Special Assistant to the Superintendent P.J. De Benedetti.
De Benedetti said he was unable to disclose the reason for investigating Garza, a first-year Spanish teacher.
"Alex Garza and his family are shocked by the recent investigation," said Garza's attorney, Salvador Mendoza Jr. "He has not been provided with any specific details regarding the allegations."
De Benedetti responded to Mendoza Jr.'s claim.
"Some details of the school district's concerns were shared verbally with Alex Garza at the time he was placed on administrative leave," he said.
Moses Lake Police Chief Dean Mitchell said the investigation involves Garza and a female student, but declined Monday to provide further details.
A Moses Lake student corresponding with KREM 2 television station accused Garza of drinking alcohol at high school parties and having inappropriate relations with a student.
"Mr. Garza values his reputation," Mendoza Jr. said. "He is a respected member of the community, a well-liked teacher and coach. He has a bachelor of arts and master's degree from WSU. He anticipates that the investigation will clear his name."
Special Assistant to the Superintendent P.J. De Benedetti could not confirm whether the situation was related to underage drinking.
"Really the expectations for kids' behavior comes first from their parents," De Benedetti said. "And I think society would hope that kids who are underage don't get involved in drinking at all. And if they do get involved in drinking, you would hope that adults aren't partying with kids."
He noted his response did not imply the cause for the investigation.