Former Neosho teacher/ girls basketball coach under fire after sexual assault allegation

Former Neosho High School girls basketball coach Matt Hixson, who was recently fired from his position as a corporal with the Bella Vista, Arkansas Police Department following a sexual assault allegation, is now in danger of losing his law enforcement certification.

KNWA reports the Arkansas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards voted April 15 to schedule a hearing on decertifying Hixson.

Hixson's problems began January 14 when a woman reported she had been sexually assailed by a Bella Vista police officer. After an investigation, though the woman eventually refused to press charges, Hixson was fired for violating several department policies, including sexual misconduct, making false statements and sexual harassment.  

Hixson was head girls basketball coach for nearly two season, but was removed from the position with three weeks left during his second season, though he retained his position as a Neosho High School teacher.

At the time, Assistant Superintendent Richie Fretwell told the Joplin Globe, "This is a personnel issue, so we can’t get into much (detail).” We just thought at this time it was time to make a change, and this is the direction we’re moving. Even with three weeks left in the season, we feel it was time for a change and a new voice in the locker room. Hopefully we can move forward for our kids’ sake and get ready for playoffs and finish the year strong.”

Fretwell added, "Mr. Hixson is a good man. I know he cared about our student-athletes and our girls basketball program. We respect that in Mr. Hixson.”

Hixson didn't return to the Neosho R-5 School District after the end of that year.