MADISON, Ala. – Madison Police have arrested a man who they say willfully abused a child.

Police said Theron Benjamin Rice, 28, was arrested Monday after an investigation into allegations made earlier in May. Police say this arrest was a result of information uncovered during their investigation into Jamerson Lee Baker, who was arrested in a case of the same nature in late April. Police say the two cases were unrelated.

Madison City Schools says Rice was a contract employee for the district. In a statement released Tuesday afternoon Superintendent Robby Parker said Rice hasn’t worked at any Madison City school since October 2018.

Parker wouldn’t specifically address the allegations against Rice because of the sensitive nature of the investigation. He did say that the school system is also conducting their own review.

The school system released a statement Tuesday afternoon that reads in part: ” Superintendent Parker reiterated to the school community that the safety and security of students remains the highest priority of Madison City Schools and that he will continue to work closely with administrators, school resource officers, and local law enforcement to maintain a safe learning environment for students.”

Rice is being held in the Limestone County Jail and faces a charge of Willful Torture/Abuse of a Child by a Caregiver.