Manassas Boys and Girls Club employee arrested for sexual assault of 14-year-old girl

MANASSAS, Va. - A Boys and Girls Club employee in Manassas has been charged with the sexual assault of a teenage girl, police say.

Manassas City police say Derek Branch was arrested last Friday and charged with carnal knowledge of a child after investigators found that the inappropriate contact with the 14-year-old victim happened during the summer.

The suspect and victim met at the Martin K. Alloy Boys and Girls Club of Manassas, according to police.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington President and CEO Gabrielle Urquhart Webster said in a statement:

"Late this afternoon, the Manassas City Police Department contacted our organization regarding the arrest of an employee. This employee has been suspended and barred from all of our facilities and programs. We are deeply concerned and alarmed at the alleged behavior, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement in the investigation of this serious and troubling matter.

"The safety and protection of the children we serve is our number one priority. We are committed to the highest standards of ethical behavior and integrity, and we do not tolerate inappropriate or illegal activity on the part of any staff, volunteer, or youth member. All employees and volunteers must undergo a thorough criminal background check, and our policies are designed to ensure the maximum safety of our youth members.

"We encourage any individual with information regarding this disturbing allegation to contact the Manassas City Police Department. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement until this matter is resolved."

Branch is being held without bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 17.