A teacher accused of having sexual contact with a student was released on bond, according to jail records.
Johnny Mark Dunaway, 55, is charged with seven counts of enticing a child for immoral purposes, one count of sexual abuse of a child less than 12 years old and one count of interference with custody.
Dunaway, who was a math teacher at Jerry Lee Faine Elementary, was fired after the Dothan City Schools Board of Education learned of the arrest.
Dunaway was initially placed in the Houston County Jail with no bond. During a bond hearing, WTVY reported prosecutors claimed the teacher threatened the student, telling him he would “blow” his head off or the heads of the child’s family if he told on him. Investigators testified that the suspect had numerous firearms and was considered a flight risk.
Houston County Judge Benjamin Lewis set a $1 million bond. According to jail records, Dunaway posted bond and was released.
Police said there could be more victims and additional charges. Detectives have seized items and sent court orders for various social media and gaming platforms.
Police Chief William Benny said the school received a complaint months before authorities were contacted. The Dothan City School system said the Board of Education did not learn of any complaints until the arrest.
Dothan City Schools hired Dunaway in 2021. He previously worked in Florida and Georgia, where prosecutors said they believe Dunaway was accused of inappropriate actions. In Florida, they said he was disciplined in the 1990s, but no charges were filed. Prosecutors could not provide documentation on any Georgia complaints.
Dunaway is not allowed to have contact with the victim or any children under 19. His preliminary hearing was set for June 10.
Dunaway is considered innocent until proven guilty.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every day or become a member to gain access to exclusive content.
