A staff member at a residential school for at-risk teen girls in Queen Creek has been arrested and charged with two counts of sexual conduct with a minor.

The Queen Creek Police Department on Sept. 2 responded to Desert Lily Academy, 20395 E. Rittenhouse Road, on a report of a sexual assault involving a staff member and a juvenile resident, according to a press release from QCPD.

Christopher Allen, 48, was arrested on Sept. 4 and booked into the Maricopa County Jail.

“The circumstances of this incident are deeply concerning,” stated Queen Creek Chief of Police Randy Brice in the release. “Anytime allegations of criminal conduct involve children, we take immediate action to investigate, ensure accountability and protect the safety of youth in our community.”

“These calls included proactive patrols and engagement as well as reports of runaways, assaults, mental health crises and sex crimes. While overall call volume has fluctuated year to year, this incident is particularly alarming due to the involvement of an adult employee with a vulnerable juvenile,” the release continued.

The case remains active as “QCPD is reviewing the circumstances of this case, including steps in his hiring process. The protection of vulnerable youth requires rigorous hiring standards and vigilant oversight,” the release stated.

Both schools are run by Rite of Passage, a company that provides “rehabilitative and educational programs” including “treatment and trauma-informed care,” according to its website. Officials at Desert Lily Academy have not responded to a request for comment.

“QCPD recognizes that facilities like Canyon State Academy and Desert Lily Academy provide services to youth with unique needs, and the vulnerability of these populations requires close attention from law enforcement,” according to the release. “Although QCPD does not oversee or regulate these facilities, we will continue to collaborate with staff where appropriate, share best practices, and remain engaged through proactive patrols, follow-ups, and youth-focused engagement.”