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Principal Accused Of Child Molestation Says He's Innocent

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (CBS13/AP) -- The principal under investigation for allegations of child molestation at a Northern California private school is denying he did anything wrong, declaring "I am innocent."

Robert Adams addressed the accusations Monday, the first time he has spoken publicly since authorities shut down Creative Frontier School in Citrus Heights, a Sacramento suburb.

With his wife, three daughters and attorney by his side, Adams denied accusations that he inappropriately touched young girls over a 15-year period.

"I am shocked at the allegations that have been made against me and the school, but I welcome a full investigation," said Adams. "I am sad mostly for these children; closing the school in this manner. But I assure you, I'm very confident that nothing inappropriate has happened. I am innocent."

The allegations against him were contained in a complaint filed this week by the California Department of Social Services, which revoked his daycare license. The school has since been closed.

Adams has not been arrested. Citrus Heights police spokesman Jon Kempf said Wednesday the department was continuing to "carefully and methodically" investigate. He also said the department continues to receive "new significant" information relating to the case.

The complaint alleged Adams touched young girls under their shirts and down their pants. It went on to say Adams -- whom students referred to as "Mr. Bob" -- would also "seclude female children under a computer desk and lie down with them on a mat in his office."

The complaint also accuses office administrator Cynthia Higgins of being aware of some of the allegations and failing to report them to authorities.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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