Suicide in wake of Durham school sex scandal

Monday, June 16, 2014
DURHAM (WTVD) -- Administrators at the Carolina Friends School say a former teacher accused of sexual abuse has committed suicide.

The school said Charles William "Bill" Butcher took his own life June 12.

"We know that the effects of child sexual abuse are far-reaching for all involved. Also, we are mindful of Bill's expression of deep remorse and desire to contribute to healing. We are sorry for the loss of opportunity for our community and for him to pursue some measure of restorative justice," said the school in a media statement.

Five former students said they were sexually abused by a former principal between 1969 and 1975 during their lower and middle school years. One of the five also said they were touched by Butcher - a former middle school teacher - in 1976.

The Quaker school said last week that it is taking steps to prevent any future abuse. Investigators said the statute of limitations on the accusations expired long ago.



The school said Butcher's niece - who was unaware of the alleged abuse - asked it to "convey her deep sorrow for those who may have been harmed."

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