News Radio KKOB:
A longtime Albuquerque educator is at the center of a disturbing criminal investigation that has shocked the local community.
Kelly McEachran, a 66-year-old fifth-grade teacher at Hope Christian Elementary School, has been arrested in Idaho and is now facing multiple charges of criminal sexual contact and penetration of a minor. The charges stem from allegations that McEachran sexually abused an 11-year-old student during the 2024–2025 school year.
According to court documents, the alleged abuse occurred on multiple occasions during class time, raising serious concerns about how such incidents could have gone unnoticed. The victim reportedly told investigators that McEachran would call her to his desk, where the inappropriate contact allegedly took place.
The school administration says it first became aware of the allegations on April 6th. McEachran was placed on administrative leave the following day, and police were notified shortly after. However, the timeline has sparked questions about whether the school complied with New Mexico’s mandatory reporting laws, which require immediate notification of suspected child abuse to authorities.
Hope Christian School released a statement saying it is fully cooperating with law enforcement and is committed to ensuring the safety of its students. The school also noted that McEachran had been a teacher there for 35 years, with no prior complaints on record.
McEachran, who was located and arrested by U.S. Marshals in Idaho, is currently awaiting extradition to New Mexico. His attorney has stated that McEachran denies all allegations and intends to return voluntarily to face the charges.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Hope Christian community, with parents and staff grappling with the gravity of the accusations. Law enforcement officials say the investigation is ongoing and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Stay with News Radio KKOB for continuing coverage of this developing story.
