SPOKANE, Wash – Spokane Police arrested a local elementary school teacher on child rape charges.
Police say a child came forward about sex acts with a teacher. Police say they obtained statements and evidence leading them to believe the allegations were credible.
They arrested Mahayla Benavides, 32, for first degree rape of a child and first degree child molestation. She was booked into the jail at 6:30 Friday morning.
Rape of a child occurs when the victim is under 12 years old.
Public records indicate Benavides was a teacher at Stevens Elementary School.
“Spokane School District 81 acted quickly once this information was brought to their attention, promptly separating Benavides from the child and further school access, and calling police,” police said in a news release. “The school district’s swift actions and cooperation played a vital role in this investigation and prevented further harm.”
4 News Now reached out to Spokane Schools Friday.
A spokesperson said “It’s vital we allow SPD to conduct its investigation, and SPS will continue to follow our established policies and procedures as we take next steps pending the outcome.”
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