LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Ralph Loechle, a 51-year-old social studies teacher at Eastern High School, was arrested over the weekend in Shelby County on multiple drug-related charges. The arrest followed a traffic stop during which officers discovered marijuana, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia in Loechle’s vehicle.
According to the arrest report, an officer pulled over Loechle’s vehicle after noticing that the car’s license plate did not match its registration. Upon approaching the vehicle, the officer allegedly detected a strong odor of marijuana. A search of the car and Loechle’s person reportedly yielded a burnt joint inside a cigarette box in his pocket, along with marijuana and other drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Additionally, officers found a medicine bottle containing a small, clear baggie believed to be methamphetamine.
When questioned, Loechle denied ownership of the drugs, claiming they did not belong to him or anyone else in the vehicle. As a result, he was charged with improper display of registration plates, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to maintain required insurance.
In response to the arrest, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) issued a statement confirming that Loechle had been reassigned to a non-instructional position. The district did not comment further on the details of the case, but emphasized that Loechle would not be teaching students while legal proceedings were underway.
Loechle, who has been employed with JCPS for several years, posted a $5,000 bond on Monday and was released from custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for May 13, when he will face a preliminary hearing.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential impact on the school community, with parents and students expressing mixed reactions. While some advocate for a thorough legal process before making any further decisions regarding Loechle’s employment, others are calling for more immediate action in light of the charges.
As the case continues to unfold, the district and community await further developments.
