Gibson City teacher, coach accused of sexually abusing student

GIBSON CITY, Ill. (WAND) — A Gibson City teacher and coach has been charged with sexually abusing a student.

On March 30, Gibson City Police Department officers met with the parents of a GCMS student who said their child had been receiving concerning text messages from Robert Dinkins.

At that time, Mr. Dinkins was an 8th grade teacher, 8th grade basketball coach, Middle School Track Coach, Head High School Varsity Soccer Coach, and High School basketball coach.

GCPD then started the investigation process in conjunction with the Gibson City Melvin Sibley CUSD #5 and the Illinois State Attorneys Appellate Prosecutors Office from Springfield.

GCPD executed a search warrant at Dinkins’ home and seized his phone and other electronics.

As part of the investigation, several interviews were conducted, and a forensic analysis of his phone was completed. Police said the investigation revealed there was data to support Dinkins having participated in sexual activities with a high-school age student.

On June 4, an arrest warrant, out of Ford County, was obtained for Dinkins for six counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

On June 5, Dinkins was arrested on the warrant in Macon, Georgia. He will be transported back to the Ford County Jail to await the judge.

The Board of Education of Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Community Unit School District #5 met Wednesday, April 23, and voted to terminate Dinkins' employment.