ALICE, Texas — A coach with Alice Independent School District has resigned following allegations of possession of a controlled substance.
According to reporting from KRIS 6, Alice ISD has confirmed that the former coach tendered his resignation following the discovery of a controlled substance.
Jim Wells County Sheriff Baker also confirmed to KRIS 6 that the individual in question was alleged to have been in possession of cocaine, according to a field test conducted on the substance. Since the coach was also on school property at the time, this could result in elevated charges.
Under the Texas Penal Code, Section 481.134, it is illegal to possess, manufacture, or deliver a controlled substance within 1000 feet of a school.
Both Alice ISD and the Jim Wells County Sheriff’s Department are currently witholding the identity of the former staff member. Sheriff Baker emphasized in his conversation with KRIS 6 reporter Melissa Trevino, that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty.
Despite these statements from authorities, some community members are voicing their concerns about the lack of transparency regarding this matter. The uproar in the Alice community follows a recent scandal in Robstown, that the school district addressed directly in a statement released today. Many have drawn comparisons to the two situations, given their similarities.
The Gazette is working diligently to find out more information and is committed to keeping the community informed.
Update 02/12/25 5:33 CST: Alice ISD has confirmed the identity of the suspect as Hector Gaza Jr., a former coach and instructor at Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) campus.
According to reporting by KRIS 6, Gaza was arrested today at a residence on Encino Avenue in Alice, Texas. He is currently being held on a $100,000 bond in the Jim Wells County Jail.