Tulsa police arrested a teacher on Tuesday for lewd molestation, second-degree rape of a minor and forcible sodomy.
41-year-old John Gisler is a teacher at Whitney Middle School.
Tulsa Police Sex Crimes Sergeant Gary Stansill told 2NEWS that Gisler met the child he's accused of molesting through his role as a volunteer at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Stansill said the child told a therapist at the Tulsa Boys Home.
Big Brothers Big Sisters released a statement on Wednesday, stating, "Big Brothers Big Sisters is aware of the investigation and arrest involving a former volunteer with our organization. We are alarmed and deeply saddened by reports of any child being harmed. Because there is an ongoing investigation, it would be inappropriate and irresponsible for us to discuss or speculate about any specifics. However, please know that we make child safety our priority. We have zero tolerance for abuse. Our volunteers and staff undergo thorough screening and background checks and we provide ongoing professional support for our children and families. In this case, we have no knowledge that the accused has had any contact with any of our children since his relationship with us ended."
The statement also says that Big Brothers Big Sisters will work with authorities to inform any parents associated with the organization whose children may have been in contact with Gisler.
TPS Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard says the investigation must be completed before a decision is made about Gisler's employment.
Gisler is currently out of jail after posting bail.
