Prince George's Co. Police: Elementary school principal cleared, no evidence of misconduct

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. - Prince George's County police say an elementary school principal who was placed on leave earlier this week amid allegations of misconduct has been cleared, following an initial review of evidence.

Officials tell FOX 5's Jennifer Davis there is no evidence of criminal misconduct by Brian Jones, who is in his first year as principal at Judge Sylvania Woods Elementary School in Glenarden. An investigation began out of what a spokesperson called an abundance of caution, after an allegation was made via email.

Police say following their initial investigation, the allegation was determined to be unfounded. No information has been given by police as to the specifics of the allegation.

On Wednesday night, dozens of parents showed up at the school for a meeting with school officials to discuss their concerns about the situation. Parents told FOX 5 they were outraged at the lack of information, but they did learn a new interim principal had already been named.

Parents were made aware of Jones' leave in a letter sent home on September 12. Area 3 Instructional Director Kathleen Brady explained that Jones was on leave and Assistant Principal Donna Smith would be handling his duties.

"All faculty and staff remain committed to your child's success this school year in a safe learning environment," Brady wrote.

PGCPS CEO Dr. Kevin Maxwell first announced Jones' leave on Tuesday in a news conference where he addressed several recent incidents concerning student safety. Maxwell would only say the principal was placed on leave after an accusation was made via email.

Jones replaced Michelle Williams, who was the school's principal when former school aide Deonte Carraway, 22, was indicted on 270 charges of child sex abuse and pornography involving children.