Principal to face sex crime charges

VICKSBURG, Mich. (WOOD) - Criminal charges are pending against the principal of Vicksburg Middle School for alleged inappropriate conduct with a former student.

Vicksburg Community Schools was notified Monday by the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor's Office that charges will likely be filed Tuesday against Greg Tibbetts, according to a letter sent home to parents by superintendent Charles Glaes.

== Read the full letter to parents from Supt. Charles Glaes (pdf) ==

The charges are the culmination of an investigation involving sexual misconduct, child pornography on the computer and allegations of inappropriate conduct with a former Vicksburg Middle School student.

Tibbetts was allegedly involved in a sexual relationship with a young boy over the course of a few years, the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor's Office told 24 Hour News 8. The alleged victim told another adult what was happening, which started the investigation.

Authorities do not believe there are any other victims.

Tibbetts, who has been with Vicksburg Community Schools for nine years, was placed on administrative leave on Sept. 25 after law enforcement informed the district of the investigation, according to the superintendent's letter.

"I can only wish that we'd been informed earlier or had seen anything earlier. We did not," Glaes told 24 Hour News 8 Monday evening. "It's exceedingly painful. ... One's worst nightmare."

The school district is cooperating with authorities.

"Total disbelief -- what I told them (police) is if there's anyone who I would feel less likely to believe an allegation would be Mr. Tibbetts," said Glaes.

24 Hour News 8 went to Tibbetts' home Monday evening to ask for comment, but no one answered his door. He has retained an attorney, 24 Hour News 8 was told, and awaits arrest and a first court date that could come as soon as Tuesday.

Counselors will be available at the middle and high school starting Tuesday.

Parents with questions or concerns may contact the superintendent at 269.321.1003.