Staff Report
DRIPPING SPRINGS — Former Dripping Springs Middle School (DSMS) teacher Kevin James McLean is now facing a total of 20 charges after he was again arrested earlier this week, now on charges related to possession of child pornography and more.
McLean, 30, was first arrested and booked into Hays County Jail on May 5 for sending inappropriate images through Snapchat to juvenile victims, as well as providing juveniles with nicotine and THC vapes. The reporting party was in Austin, and a report was filed with the Austin Police Department (APD). Hays County Sheriff’s Office then coordinated efforts with APD and Dripping Springs ISD. McLean was released from jail on May 14.
McLean’s charges from his May 5 arrest are as follows:
- One charge of Possession of a Dangerous Drug; $5,000 surety bond
- Three charges of Distribution of Controlled Substance to a Minor; $50,000 surety bond
- Four charges of Sale, Distribution or Display of Harmful Material to a Minor; $12,500 surety bond
McLean was again booked into Hays County Jail on June 13 on twelve additional charges and released June 14, according to Hays County jail records.
McLean’s charges from his June 13 arrest are as follows:
- One charge of Online Solicitation of a Minor; $50,000 surety bond
- One charge of Improper Relationship Between Educator/Student; $100,000 surety bond
- Ten charges of Possession of Child Pornography; $25,000 surety bond
In a statement released last month by DSISD, McLean was hired in August 2020 after passing a national, fingerprint-based background check required for all employees and was assigned to teach and coach track at DSMS. McLean was placed on leave on April 27, 2022 and was immediately removed from access to all campuses and students due to alleged improper social media posts.
“McLean will not be returning to any campus or DSISD property, as DSISD had previously received and accepted his resignation unrelated to the allegations,” the district’s statement said. “DSISD is committed to the safety and security of all students. The district continues to partner with law enforcement agencies to help ensure the safety of the children in the Dripping Springs community and all students across Texas.
Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler also reminded parents to monitor their children’s safe use of phones, tablets and computers in a news release.
“Unfortunately, circumstances such as these occur as more and more people have access to the latest technology; however, understanding the importance of safe use is paramount,” the news release said.
