Arlington Public Schools Criticized for Months-Long Delay in Implementing Sex Offender Safeguards

Arlington, VA – Arlington Public Schools (APS) is facing significant criticism following revelations that it took months to implement enhanced security protocols after a registered sex offender, Richard Cox, was accused of exposing himself in female locker rooms at school facilities. The delay has sparked outrage among parents and community members, who allege the school district prioritized "ideology at the expense of students’ safety."

The controversy centers on Richard Cox, a Tier III registered sex offender who identifies as a woman, charged with multiple counts of indecent exposure and loitering near schools. According to reports, Cox allegedly exposed himself to women and children in the locker rooms of Washington-Liberty High School and Wakefield High School aquatic centers, which are open to the public outside of school hours. Incidents were reportedly observed as early as June 2024, with Cox's arrest occurring in October 2024.

APS's existing policy permits individuals to use restrooms and locker rooms corresponding to their chosen gender identity. This policy allowed Cox access to female facilities. Despite early reports from concerned patrons, the school district did not implement a system to check IDs against the sex offender database for pool access until February 2025. This timeline has led to accusations of negligence and a slow response.

Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán stated that APS "did not knowingly admit a sex offender into any of our aquatic facilities" and emphasized the district's commitment to fostering an inclusive community. Following the incidents, APS announced new security measures, including mandatory ID checks against the sex offender database for all visitors to aquatic centers and the assignment of School Safety Coordinators. However, the underlying policy allowing gender identity-based facility use remains in place.

Community reactions have been sharply divided. Many residents expressed frustration and called for a reversal of the gender-inclusive locker room policies, arguing they create vulnerabilities. Others defended the inclusive policies, asserting that the actions of a sex offender should not be conflated with the rights of transgender individuals, and that security enhancements should focus on preventing criminal behavior, not restricting access based on gender identity. The debate continues as Cox's legal proceedings advance.