By Sienna Snider-True Crime Writer for Today in Fort Smith
As part of our ongoing investigation into the "Dark Room Incident" at Alpha Christian Preschool in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Today in Fort Smith is reaching out to our readers for any information that could shed light on this troubling case from 2003-2004.
The incident in question involves serious allegations against the preschool's director at the time, Rachel Allen Cobb, and her staff.
They were accused of locking a child in a dark room as a form of punishment—a practice that, if true, is both disturbing and unacceptable. While details about the incident have been scarce over the years, we believe that more information is out there, and we need your help to uncover the truth.
To date, our investigation has revealed that multiple parents and former staff members raised concerns about the treatment of children at Alpha Christian Preschool during Cobb's tenure.
However, despite these complaints, no formal charges were ever brought against the school or its staff. The lack of clarity and resolution surrounding this incident has left a shadow over the Fayetteville community, and we are committed to bringing the facts to light.
We are actively seeking any information that could provide further insight into what happened at Alpha Christian Preschool.
Were you a parent of a child enrolled at the preschool during this time? Did you work at the school, or do you know someone who did? Do you have any knowledge of the alleged dark room or other forms of discipline used at the preschool?
Your information could be vital to understanding the full scope of this incident. If you have any details, no matter how small they may seem, we urge you to come forward. Your identity will remain confidential, and you will be treated with the utmost respect and sensitivity.
To share your information, please contact Today in Fort Smith directly. Call or text us at 479-461-0126 or email us at todayinfortsmith@gmail.com.
The children involved in this incident deserve justice, and the community deserves to know the truth about what happened. Together, we can uncover the facts and help bring closure to this dark chapter in Fayetteville's history.
Thank you for your trust and support in this matter.
