Redmond police officers arrested a 20-year-old Renton male at his residence Wednesday for investigation of child molestation charges at the La Petite Academy in Redmond. The suspect was booked into King County Jail and the man hadn’t been charged as of the Reporter‘s deadline.

According to Redmond Police Department (RPD) public information officer Becky Range, on July 15, a staff member at the academy, located at 8675 161st Ave. N.E., notified police that a family reported child molestation allegations involving a staff member and a 5-year-old child. The academy immediately put the staff member on administrative leave.

Range said students’ parents were notified of the incident last week. Range visited with staff members on Wednesday and said that everyone is concerned for the children and their families. Staff members believe there is only one victim, and they have been cooperative with detectives and social agencies during the investigation, Range added.

Lydia Cisaruk, La Petite Academy’s director of communication, said: “We take our responsibility as caregivers very seriously. We’re working closely with the regulatory agencies to assist their investigation until this matter is resolved.

“We have strict policies and procedures to ensure we’re providing the highest level of care, and we do not tolerate any deviation from these standards. Our focus remains on providing a safe and nurturing learning environment for the children in our care.”

On Wednesday, Redmond police notified Renton police they were in their jurisdiction and were making the arrest, which occurred without incident, Range said.

According to its website, La Petite Academy is an educational day care where staff members motivate children to develop an interest and excel in academics and technology while building positive character traits.