Sulphur teacher arrested for alleged drug trafficking; placed on administrative leave

SULPHUR, Okla. (KXII) - A Sulphur public school teacher was placed on leave, following his arrest on drug trafficking charges.

According to court documents, Andrew Swartz, 37, was pulled over for speeding, when a state trooper smelled alcohol on his breath, leading to a probable cause search of the vehicle.

Troopers found a small jar of marijuana in his center console, $3,606 in US currency in the passenger floorboard, and 46 pounds of packaged marijuana in the back seat.

Swartz told police that he was legally selling it to a medical marijuana shop.

Troopers confirmed that Swartz does have a marijuana transport license, but he did not have the paperwork required for each shipment.

Swartz was charged with drug trafficking, as well as speeding.

Swartz faces up to 20 years in prison, if convicted.

Sulphur Superintendent Matt Holder said in a statement, “Last week, district administrators learned a Sulphur High School teacher was arrested by law enforcement for a matter that was not school related. The teacher allegedly involved has been placed on administrative leave. Because this is a personnel matter, we are unable to share additional information at this time.

Mr. Clete Cole, Sulphur High School principal, has made arrangements to ensure students assigned to the teacher’s class will continue to receive instruction without interruption.

There is nothing more important to our district than the health, safety and well-being of our students. It is never easy to share concerning news about situations that impact our schools; however, I want you to know I will always communicate as openly and transparently as possible with our school family. When we work together, we can ensure we provide the best and safest educational experience for all students.”