WISE COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) — An employee with the Wise County School system has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of child sex crimes, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office announced on Wednesday.

According to a news release, Tyler Jay Tibbs, 28, of Coeburn, was arrested and charged with the following:

• Three counts of carnal knowledge
• One count of taking indecent liberties with a child by a person in a custodial or supervisory
  relationship

“The Wise County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the Wise County School System to ensure the continued safety of all students,” the sheriff’s office said in the release. “This investigation remains active and ongoing.”

As of Wednesday, Tibbs is being held at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail without bond.

The Wise County School system released the following statement regarding Tibbs’ arrest:

“Yesterday, Wise County Public Schools administration received information regarding allegations of inappropriate conduct by a school employee with a minor. Upon receiving the information, administration immediately alerted the Wise County Sheriff’s department to begin the investigation.

Late yesterday afternoon, Wise County Public Schools was notified by the Wise County Sheriff’s department that an employee in our division was arrested and charged with serious criminal offenses.

As a result, the employee has been immediately removed from all duties and placed on administrative leave while this matter is investigated. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement, and because this is an active criminal case, we are unable to share additional details at this time.

The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority. Counselors and support staff are available for those who may need assistance.

We ask for the community’s understanding and cooperation as this matter proceeds through the legal system.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact our central office at 276-328-8017.”

Wise County Public Schools