Dalton State professor Monte G. Salyer charged in child molestation

A 58-year-old English professor at Dalton State College is under investigation by the Whitfield County Sheriff's Office for alleged child molestation.

Monte G. Salyer, Ph.D., was arrested on Jan. 27 on one count, Whitfield County Sheriff's Capt. John Swiney said. Salyer has been released from jail on bond, Swiney said.

"We're not releasing any information at this time, it's an ongoing investigation," Swiney said Friday afternoon. He said more information would be released next week "when it's appropriate."

"Right now, we're scared it might hinder our investigation," Swiney said.

Salyer, an associate professor of English and English as a Second Language, is on leave from the faculty following disclosure of his arrest, according to a statement issued by Dalton State.

"This is in accordance with Board of Regents' policy of the University System of Georgia," it said. "As this is an ongoing personnel matter, the college will have no additional comment."

Salyer's classes are being covered by other Dalton State faculty members.

According to his faculty website, Salyer earned bachelor's and master's degrees from Andrews University, a Seventh-day Adventist school in Berrien Springs, Mich. He received his doctoral degree from Michigan State University.