On Sunday Nov, 17th, officials with Boys & Girls Homes and Thomas Academy were made aware that a Thomas Academy employee had allegedly engaged in inappropriate communication with a student at Thomas Academy. The employee’s contract was subsequently terminated.

Jody Watts, 49, of Green Sea, SC, was arrested for alleged: Indecent Liberties with a Student and first degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

Officials with BGHNC and Thomas Academy notified and are cooperating with law enforcement and the district attorney’s office.

The organizations are not specifically naming the employee, However Columbus Daily can confirm the identity as it matches arrest reports.

This is a developing story.

Columbus Daily News Tip-line: 910-317-0126. Call or Text.