Willie Harrell, a former Kent State English professor, is scheduled to appear in court May 2 after being arrested in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. Harrell was considered a fugitive, and a warrant was issued for his arrest in January.

In August 2015, Harrell, 44, was accused of meeting a 15-year-old boy in the parking lot of Smith Elementary School with the intent to pursue a sexual relationship.

Five months later, Harrell was spotted at the Canadian border trying to leave the country. He was turned over to U.S. Border and Customs agents, who released him. He was found and arrested in Orleans Parish March 22.

Harrell will appear before Summit County Judge Amy Corrigall Jones, who issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

Harrell taught at Kent State for 12 years. His contract was terminated from the university. 

Marissa Barnhart is a city reporter for The Kent Stater. Contact her at [email protected].