By CATHERINE DONNELLY
Special to the PRESS
The Port Isabel Police arrested a 48-year-old Point Isabel Independent School District (PI-ISD) employee for allegedly sending harmful material to a female high school student.
According to Monday’s PI-ISD press release, the school district terminated the unnamed employee upon the arrest, “The Point Isabel Independent School District has learned of the arrest of a former employee. The district can confirm that this individual was an employee at Port Isabel Early College High School. At this time, this individual is no longer an employee of the district.”
Omar Vera, a formerly employed paraprofessional for the high school when he was arrested on five counts of distribution of harmful material to a minor, Port Isabel police confirmed. Vera’s charges are causes #2400280257-2400280261 cited under Texas Penal Code Section 43.23 Subsection (A)(B)(C)(b)(1), which is the sale, distribution, or display of harmful materials to a minor.
Vera’s bond is $25,000, according to police records. There is no known prior police record at this time.
“The investigation into this case started with a tip from a concerned member of the community,” said Port Isabel Police Chief Robert Lopez. “We’re still investigating the situation regarding Mr. Vera.”
In today’s digital age, cybercrime has become an increasing concern for law enforcement, school staff, and parents. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in 2022, cybercrime against children rose by 20%, which now puts approximately seven underage victims at risk per day.
“As not only a police officer but also as a parent myself, I implore that parents monitor their children’s social media,” said Seargent Carlos Gonzalez. “Through electronic devices connected to the internet, such as their phone, tablet, computer, or gaming devices, children can contact anyone in the world and the world in contact with them. We will remain vigilant in taking the necessary steps to protect them from that danger.”
To assist the Port Isabel Police Department (PIPD) in keeping the youngest members of the Port Isabel community safe, it’s essential to report all suspicious or criminal activity using the PIPD website’s online form or call (956) 943-2727 or (956) 943-1242.
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