Alabama teacher allegedly threatened to kill elementary student, family if child revealed sex crimes

A former Dothan elementary school teacher is facing serious charges after allegedly threatening to kill a student and their family if the child exposed his pattern of abuse. Johnny Mark Dunaway, 55, a former educator at Jerry Lee Faine Elementary, was taken into custody last week following an extensive investigation.

Criminal Charges and Bond Status

Dunaway is currently being held on $1 million bond in Houston County. He faces multiple counts of enticing a child for immoral purposes, one count of interference with custody, and one count of sexual abuse of a child under 12.

During a bond hearing on Thursday, Houston County Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Stanley revealed the severity of the threats against the victim. According to reports from WTVY, Dunaway allegedly told the child he would kill them or their family members if the misconduct was reported. Dothan Police Investigator Melissa Phillips testified that officers recovered a significant number of firearms while searching the suspect's home, further heightening concerns regarding his potential as a flight risk.

Investigation and School Response

Authorities launched their investigation on May 6 after the Houston County Department of Human Resources notified police of allegations involving a staff member. Detectives revealed that a separate complaint concerning Dunaway’s conduct was reportedly handled internally by Dothan City Schools in February, with a second report following on April 28. It was not until May 6 that school officials escalated the matter to the Department of Human Resources.

A forensic interview with the victim eventually led to the current charges. Dothan police searched the suspect's Dale County residence on May 13, seizing several items for forensic testing and pursuing court orders for records from various social media and gaming platforms. Investigators have indicated that additional charges are likely as more reports of abuse have surfaced.

Administrative Fallout

Dothan City Schools attorney Dustin Fowler stated that the board had already begun the process of terminating Dunaway’s employment prior to his arrest. Because the suspect was a tenured teacher, the district was required to follow specific due process protocols under Alabama law. Fowler noted that school officials were previously unaware of the February complaint against the teacher.

"The level of trust given to school employees that encounter our children is not one to be taken lightly," said Dothan Police Chief William Benny. "When there is evidence that trust has been violated, the Dothan Police Department will not hesitate to take action to protect the children in our schools."

Fowler reaffirmed that the safety of students remains the top priority for Superintendent Dr. Askew, Board Chairman Dr. Turner, and the Dothan City Board of Education.