Decatur High School security guard pleads not guilty to sexual misconduct charge

By Alex Bruell • April 7, 2023 2:30 pm
Decatur High School in Federal Way. Photo courtesy of Federal Way Public Schools
Decatur High School in Federal Way. Photo courtesy of Federal Way Public Schools

The Decatur security guard who was charged with sexual misconduct with a student has pleaded not guilty and is now scheduled for trial in June.

Derek Aparis, 46, is accused of having sex with a 17-year-old student at the school last winter.

Sexual misconduct with a minor applies if the defendant is a school employee, like Aparis, and the victim is a student of the school and is between the ages of 16 and 20.

Aparis’ arraignment — the hearing in which charges are formally read to a defendant — was March 30. He entered a plea of not guilty. His trial is set to begin June 20, although trial dates frequently change in criminal courts as attorneys review evidence and prepare their cases.

The Mirror has reached out to Aparis through his attorney for comment.

Aparis is on leave from the school district.

FYI

If a student you know has had inappropriate interactions with Aparis, or if they witnessed such behavior, contact Federal Way Police Detective Richard Adams at 253-835-6795 or Richard.adams@cityoffederalway.com. For any FWPS-related questions or concerns, contact Diane Ellis at 253-945-2049.