Police: Man Confesses to Molesting Deaf Students

HOUSTON -- A man who once worked at a Houston church for the deaf is accused of molesting hearing-impaired students and paying them to participate in sex acts, officials told KPRC Local 2 Wednesday.

Houston and Austin police are working together to find possible victims of Shane Flournoy.

Police said the 32-year-old confessed to his minister and investigators that he had improper sexual relations with deaf students and paid some to expose themselves.

He admitted to having improper relation with a 15-year-old male student," said Sgt. Richard Stresing with the Austin Police Department.

Flournoy was working at the Texas School for the Deaf as a dorm room supervisor.

Investigators said the incidents happened at his Austin apartment.

Police said they believe there are more victims in the Houston and Austin areas.

Flournoy said he worked as a volunteer at the Woodhaven Baptist Deaf Church at 9920 Long Point, for six years before moving to Austin in May 2007.

Pastor Arthur Craig from Woodhaven said, "We are shocked about the news. Shane was a very dedicated worker and people here liked him."

Flournoy told officers that he met many of his victims, ranging from 13 to 16 years old, while working at Woodhaven and with the Houston Black Deaf Advocates.

Flournoy remained jailed on one count of having an improper relationship between an educator and a student. Police said they expect more charges to be filed.

Investigators said no students have come forward to file a complaint.

Anyone who knows possible victims is asked to contact the Houston Police Juvenile Sex Crimes Division at 713-731-5335.

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