Anderson School Board Member Resigns Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

Anderson School Board Member Resigns Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

ANDERSON — A respected member of the Anderson County School Board has stepped down from his leadership role following serious allegations of sexual assault that date back several decades. Gary Burgess, aged 67, was arrested on November 27, 2024, facing two counts of sexually assaulting a minor.

The allegations surfaced due to a recent report made to the Spartanburg County sheriff’s deputies, which led to the discovery that Burgess, then 18, allegedly assaulted an 11-year-old child twice in 1976. Details surrounding the case were revealed through arrest warrants issued by law enforcement.

Resignation from Leadership Position

Burgess officially resigned from his role as vice chair of the Anderson County School Board on December 2, according to a statement from board Administrator Susan Binninger. While he has stepped down from the vice chair position, Binninger confirmed that Burgess remains on the board itself.

After resigning, Burgess communicated with the board, providing reasons for his decision but did not disclose specific details, opting instead to maintain a level of privacy around the situation.

Burgess’ Statement

In an email sent to local media following his resignation, Burgess mentioned that he believed the charges against him were “manufactured.” He opted to defer further comments to his attorney. In a separate statement to a local television station, he claimed that the individual making the allegations is a “distant family member,” with whom he has had “no social interaction.”

Background and Community Status

Burgess has an extensive background in education, having served as the former superintendent of Anderson District 4 and as the principal of Pendleton High School. Furthermore, he is known as a pastor at the Universal Body of Christ Church located in Inman, near Spartanburg. As of December 2, records indicate that Burgess’ teaching certifications were still active, and he remains listed on the church’s official website.

It is worth noting that Burgess has a history of legal controversies, including a situation in 2008 where he retired amid a scandal involving intimidation claims made by a nurse.

Ongoing Investigation

The recent developments regarding Burgess have sent shockwaves through the local community. Many are questioning the implications of the allegations on the school board and the educational environment in Anderson County. The investigation initiated by the Spartanburg County sheriff’s department continues, as authorities seek to gather more information regarding the allegations against him.

Community members are closely watching the situation, eager to learn how the school board will respond to these serious allegations. The board is expected to hold discussions on the matter in upcoming meetings, further highlighting the importance of this issue in the local educational landscape.

Conclusion

The unexpected resignation of Gary Burgess as vice chair of the Anderson County School Board marks a significant event in the community. As the investigation continues, residents of Anderson and surrounding areas remain concerned about the safety and integrity of their educational institutions. Updates on the case are likely as law enforcement works to bring clarity to the situation.