Coach Faces 3 Charges in 2 Counties

HOUSTON - A Houston-area teacher is behind bars on accusations he had inappropriate relationships with students.

Coldspring-Oakhurst Consolidated ISD speech teacher and coach Dennis Isbell is facing a total of three charges in two counties, Coldspring ISD Attorney Wayne Haglaund said. He is being held at the Montgomery County Jail

Montgomery County officials filed on Monday an inappropriate relationship between and educator and a student charge against him, Haglaund said. Last week, Isbell also was charged with engaging in an inappropriate relationship between and educator and student and indecency with a child in San Jacinto County.

The school district launched an investigation late fall after administrators were tipped off about an alleged relationship with a district student, Haglaund said. Isbell was suspended in October 2009 and ordered not to attend any school activities or contact any students.

Haglaund wouldn't reveal the genders of the students allegedly victimized.

The investigation is ongoing, and Haglaund is encouraging anyone with more information to contact the district's police department.

Coldspring, Texas is located northeast of Houston in San Jacinto County.