Former Burke County teacher who worked at church charged with child exploitation - Thursday, Aug. 24

A former Burke County teacher who also worked at a church in Morganton is facing charges for alleged crimes against children, investigators announced Wednesday. Aaron Doyle Mirtsching was charged with three counts of third-degree exploitation of a minor by the Burke County Sheriff's Office after deputies received an online tip alleging Mirtsching of misconduct. He was arrested and is scheduled to appear in court Thursday, Aug. 24. Mirtsching was a kindergarten teacher at New Dimensions Charter School in Morganton, according to a now-deleted LinkedIn profile. The school confirmed that Mirtsching was a former employee, telling WCNC Charlotte he resigned after the last school year and was not involved with the school when he was arrested. "We are cooperating with all authorities involved with this investigation," the school said in a statement. "At this time, we have not been made aware of any circumstances relating to New Dimensions."Thrive Church in Morganton said Mirtsching was fired from his staff position after being arrested. Church leaders said they were unaware of any ongoing investigation before they were notified of his arrest. READ MORE: https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/crime/burke-county-north-carolina-teacher-charged-crimes-against-children-church-employee/275-eb44b92d-712f-4a77-ae88-57216e44fbe1