Sanger, Texas, January 15, 2026
In Sanger, Texas, a former police officer employed by the Sanger Independent School District has been arrested on multiple felony charges, including sexual assault and improper relationships with students. The arrest follows a thorough investigation initiated after allegations surfaced in late 2025. The accused, Israel Demello, was placed on administrative leave prior to his arrest. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Sanger, Texas – Former Sanger ISD Police Officer Arrested on Multiple Felony Charges
Sanger, Texas – A former police officer with the Sanger Independent School District (ISD) has been arrested and charged with multiple felony offenses, including improper relationship between educator and student, sexual assault of a child, sexual performance by a child, and indecency with a child by sexual contact. The arrest follows an extensive investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct involving a student within the district.
Details of the Arrest
On January 14, 2026, 26-year-old Israel Demello of Denton was taken into custody by the Sanger Police Department. Demello, who was employed as a police officer with Sanger ISD, was booked into the Denton County Jail following the arrest. The charges against him are all second-degree felonies, reflecting the serious nature of the alleged offenses.
Investigation Timeline
The investigation began on November 19, 2025, when the Sanger Police Department received notifications regarding allegations of an inappropriate relationship between Demello and a student at Sanger ISD. In response, the department promptly informed Sanger ISD, leading to Demello’s placement on administrative leave the following day. The Sanger Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, with assistance from digital forensic investigators from the Denton County Sheriff’s Office and full cooperation from Sanger ISD, conducted a thorough investigation into the matter.
Legal Proceedings
As a result of the investigation, arrest warrants were issued by the Denton County Magistrate’s Court for the offenses of improper relationship between educator and student, sexual assault of a child, sexual performance by a child, and indecency with a child by sexual contact—all classified as second-degree felonies. Demello was arrested on January 14, 2026, and booked into the Denton County Jail. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Sanger Police Department at 940-458-7444 or email [email protected].
Background Context
Allegations of inappropriate relationships between educators and students have been a concern in various school districts across Texas. In recent years, several incidents have been reported, leading to arrests and legal actions against educators involved in such misconduct. These cases underscore the importance of vigilance and prompt action by school districts and law enforcement agencies to address and prevent such offenses, ensuring the safety and well-being of students within educational environments.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual Arrested | Israel Demello, 26, former Sanger ISD police officer from Denton |
| Charges | Improper relationship between educator and student, sexual assault of a child, sexual performance by a child, indecency with a child by sexual contact (all second-degree felonies) |
| Investigation Start Date | November 19, 2025 |
| Action by Sanger ISD | Placed Demello on administrative leave on November 20, 2025 |
| Arrest Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Contact Information for Tips | Sanger Police Department at 940-458-7444 or email [email protected] |
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