Ex Barrington teacher faces sex charges

BARRINGTON, R.I. (WPRI) - Barrington police have charged a former English teacher at Barrington Middle School with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old female student.

Police arrested David M. Paiva, 39, at his home in Rumford Thursday following an eight-month long investigation.

"Two different separate rooms that he took her into after school hours," says Barrington Police Det. Lt. Dino DeCrescenzo.

According to a news release from Chief John M. LaCross, the probe began August 21, 2008 when the girl's parents told police their daughter received several inappropriate and disturbing emails and text messages from Paiva.

"We uncovered numerous documents that can link the defendant, Mr. Davis Paiva to the victim," says Barrington Police Chief John LaCross.

LaCross said the alleged assault happened at the close of the school day about a year ago. According to School Superintendent Robert O. McIntyre, Paiva resigned his position at the school October 3, 2008 and was not actively employed as a staff member during this school year.

"Until shortly before then, school administration was unaware of any charges against Mr. Paiva and I personally wasn't award of any charges against him," McIntyre said in a statement released Friday afternoon.

"It's a possiblity that there could be other victims, not only in Barrington but outside of Barrington," says Chief LaCross.

Paiva is charged with two counts of second degree assault. He was arraigned and released on $100,000 personal recognizance. His is due back in court July 9.

Anyone with information on this case or any other incidents similar in nature, is asked to contact the Barrington Police Department at 401-437-3997.