New details obtained through an open records request by the News Edge indicate former Hopkinsville High School band director, Seth Peveler, was allegedly “grooming” another student for possible engagement in inappropriate conduct. The state police documents were obtained from Christian County Public Schools.
According to the state police report, a source, who is only identified by initials, informed police that information was received stating that “a band teacher, Seth, at a high school in Hopkinsville could be a threat to other kids”. The source also told authorities they had information stating that “Seth had sex with one student” and “groomed a second student by providing a list of things that the second student could or could not do when she goes to college, such as don’t talk to guys.” The police report does not say that he had sexual contact with this student, but that he did send a message to the college student allegedly”threatening to beat up her boyfriend or kill him.”
After the state police information was given to HHS Principal John Gunn, he contacted Central Office. According to a letter to Peveler signed by Superintendent Mary Ann Gemmill, he was placed on administrative leave with pay on May 8 while the investigation was being completed. Peveler submitted a resignation letter to the school district on May 31.
The investigation was then turned over to Hopkinsville Police and Peveler was arrested on a warrant last week on charges of third-degree rape, third-degree sodomy, and second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor.
According to the warrant, Peveler allegedly provided marijuana to a then 16-year old student at his home and had sexual contact with her. The warrant alleges on August 2017 when the student was 17-years old, Peveler allegedly had sexual intercourse with her at the same home in Hopkinsville. The warrant also says Peveler was in a position of authority or special trust over the victim on both occasions.
Peveler is scheduled to appear in Christian District Court for a preliminary hearing Friday morning.
