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On Jan. 20, 2025, the Logan County Sheriff’s Department was contacted by a concerned parent of Stapleton Public Schools. The parent advised Sheriff Sean Carson that a student had been inappropriately contacted by Jeremiah Johnson, the school principal and athletic director, while on school grounds.
The contact was made in a secluded area and contained commentary leading law enforcement to believe Mr. Johnson was trying to make a
sexual advance on the student. Mr. Johnson made physical contact with the student, and the student was able to get away from the area without further incident.
Further investigation led the County Attorney to file criminal charges against Mr. Johnson for Second Degree Sexual Abuse by a School Employee.
A warrant was quickly sought, as law enforcement in Nevada had located Mr. Johnson’s car.
Once the warrant was issued, local law enforcement entered a hotel room listed under Mr. Johnson’s name, to secure his person under the warrant, and Mr. Johnson was found deceased upon arrival. The County Attorney recalled the State’s warrant and dismissed the proceedings, as there was no longer anyone to prosecute.
The County Attorney and Logan County Sheriff’s Department both want to remind parents to be vigilant of their children’s whereabouts and actions. Though there is no immediate threat known to law enforcement, predatory conduct is happening more frequently than ever, especially among people who hold a position of authority over young persons.
Young individuals may not understand grooming behavior as well as an adult would, such as: buying gifts, messaging electronically, communicating outside what would be considered “normal” times and places, etc.
Our young people need our help in determining what is appropriate and what is not appropriate. We urge parents to have these discussions with their children, and urge the community to utilize their own vigilance to assist in keeping our children safe and reporting any suspicious behavior to law enforcement.
