Former Wicomico Aide Faces 39 Sex-Related Charges

Alleged assaults occurred while suspect was employed as an instructional aide at Parkside High School.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:09pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a stark, black background, capturing the gritty, investigative nature of this disturbing case.The shocking allegations against a former school aide underscore the urgent need for stronger safeguards to protect students from predatory behavior.Salisbury Today

A former Eastern Shore instructional aide with over 20 years of experience has been charged with nearly 40 offenses related to the alleged sexual assault of students at Parkside High School. Russell Lee Camper, 44, of Salisbury, Maryland, was charged with a range of felony and misdemeanor sex crimes, including sexual abuse of a minor, rape, and assault.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of students in the Wicomico County school system, and highlights the need for thorough background checks, training, and oversight of all school employees who interact with minors. The allegations also underscore the trauma experienced by victims of sexual abuse and the importance of comprehensive support services.

The details

According to court records, Camper faces 39 separate charges, including 20 felonies, related to the alleged sexual abuse of multiple Parkside High School students during his employment as an instructional aide from 2002 to 2025. The charges include three counts of sexual abuse of a minor, nine counts of second-degree rape, nine counts of third-degree sexual offenses, nine counts of fourth-degree sexual offenses, and nine counts of second-degree assault.

  • Camper was employed as an instructional aide at Parkside High School from 2002 to 2025.
  • An arrest warrant was issued for Camper on March 13, 2026, and he was taken into custody.
  • Camper's initial appearance in Wicomico County Circuit Court is scheduled for April 24, 2026.

The players

Russell Lee Camper

A 44-year-old former instructional aide at Parkside High School in Salisbury, Maryland, who has been charged with 39 sex-related offenses, including sexual abuse of a minor, rape, and assault.

Wicomico County Public Schools

The school district that employed Camper as an instructional aide from 2002 to 2025, and is now fully cooperating with the law enforcement investigation.

Wicomico County Child Advocacy Center

The organization that conducted the investigation that led to the charges against Camper.

Wicomico County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that announced the additional charges against Camper.

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What they’re saying

“Wicomico County Public Schools is aware of the law enforcement investigation of a former employee, Russell Lee Camper Jr., with charges filed last month, and the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office announcing additional charges today. Wicomico Schools is fully cooperating with law enforcement in this very concerning matter involving a former employee who worked for the school system as an instructional assistant from 2002 to 2025.”

— Wicomico County Public Schools spokesperson

What’s next

Camper's initial appearance in Wicomico County Circuit Court is scheduled for April 24, 2026, where a judge will determine whether he should be released on bail or held without bond as the case proceeds.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for rigorous background checks, ongoing monitoring, and comprehensive training for all school employees who interact with students, in order to prevent predatory behavior and protect the safety and well-being of young people in the education system.