LEONARD, Texas — The principal of Leonard High School in Fannin County has been arrested after an investigation into a student's suicide uncovered allegations that he failed to report misconduct claims involving a teacher and multiple female students.
Jansen Dru Trotter, 41, was arrested Tuesday, October 27, 2026, by the Leonard Police Department and charged with failure to report employee misconduct.
Trotter, who became principal of Leonard High School in July 2026, was booked into the Fannin County Jail. Leonard Independent School District placed him on administrative leave following his arrest.
Police Discover Audio Recording During Student Suicide Investigation
The investigation began after a Leonard High School student died by suicide earlier in October.
While investigating the death, Leonard police discovered an audio recording of a conversation between the student and Trotter.
According to investigators, the student told Trotter about alleged misconduct by a Leonard High School teacher involving multiple female students.
Police said Trotter initially denied knowing about the conversation or the allegations.
However, investigators confronted him with the existence of the audio recording, which contradicted his denial.
Authorities subsequently arrested Trotter on a charge of failure to report employee misconduct.
The identity of the teacher accused of misconduct has not been disclosed.
Police Have Not Linked Student's Suicide to Misconduct Allegations
Leonard police emphasized that investigators have not uncovered evidence establishing that the student's suicide was prompted by Trotter's alleged failure to report the misconduct claims.
The investigation into the student's death and the allegations involving the unidentified teacher remains ongoing.
Trotter's arrest comes approximately three months after he officially assumed the principal position at Leonard High School.
Following his arrest, Leonard ISD placed him on administrative leave.
Principal Held in Fannin County Jail
Trotter was booked into the Fannin County Jail following his October 27 arrest.
As of the initial arrest announcement, his bond had not been set. He was expected to appear before a magistrate Wednesday, October 28, for a bond determination.
In a statement, the Leonard Police Department addressed the ongoing investigation.
"The Leonard Police Department is committed to serving our community with professionalism, integrity, and transparency," the department said. "We recognize the importance of providing accurate information while respecting the integrity of the legal process."
