STAFFORD, Va. — A paraprofessional at Conway Elementary School has been arrested on multiple felony charges for allegedly taking inappropriate images and video of unsuspecting juvenile students, the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office announced Thursday.
Eric Van Orden, 56, of Stafford, was taken into custody at the school, located at 105 Primmer House Drive. He has been charged with 19 felony counts and one misdemeanor count of unlawful creation of the image of another. He is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.
The investigation began March 18 after a student reported suspicious behavior by Van Orden toward a female student. A School Resource Officer immediately initiated an investigation, and detectives from the Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit were assigned to the case.
Detectives determined that Van Orden had been recording juvenile students without their knowledge. The Sheriff’s Office commended the student who came forward and said they plan to formally recognize him for his actions.
Detective B.E. Abramaitys is leading the investigation and working to identify and notify victims. The Sheriff’s Office is coordinating with Stafford County Public Schools to provide appropriate support services to impacted students and families.
Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information to contact Detective Abramaitys at 540-658-4400.
Key Points
- Paraprofessional Eric Van Orden, 56, charged with 20 counts for secretly recording students at Conway Elementary.
- Investigation launched after a student reported concerning behavior to school staff.
- Van Orden is in jail without bond; authorities working to identify and support victims.