Prosecutor files motion to dismiss child sexual misconduct charges against Lake Stevens teacher
LAKE STEVENS, Wash. - A prosecutor has filed a motion to dismiss sexual misconduct charges involving children against a Lake Stevens School District teacher, basketball coach and leader of a youth group.
Police arrested the 55-year-old teacher on Jan. 25 and booked him into Snohomish County Jail for two counts of fourth-degree assault with sexual motivation, two counts of sexual misconduct with a minor, and two counts of communication with a minor for immoral purposes, according to Lake Stevens Police.
The Lake Stevens city prosecutor filed to dismiss the charges with prejudice, which means that the plaintiff/victims cannot refile the same claim again in that court.
It's unclear why they filed to dismiss the charges after a months-long investigation with the teacher's arrest only being six days ago.
He has been on paid administrative leave with the district since mid-August when the investigation was brought to the school's attention. He taught at the high school.
In a statement, the district said:
"We are fully cooperating with the police investigation and the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office throughout this process. Our focus remains on the education and support of our students. We have an incredibly strong community, and we will continue to work together to get through this challenging time. We encourage our students and employees to report any instance of inappropriate conduct. All reports will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated. Our number one priority is to provide a safe and secure learning environment for our students and staff, and we will always act in the interest of caution. Emergencies should be reported to 911. Non-emergency information can be shared with any staff member or on the anonymous SafeSchools Tip Line."
It's unclear if the alleged victims were students in the district or if the teacher allegedly met them online.
FOX 13 News spoke to the teacher at his home on Jan. 26. He answered the door wearing a Lake Stevens High School Basketball pullover. He did not comment on the allegations, but his defense attorney provided this statement.
FOX 13 has reached out to the prosecutor and the teacher's attorney for more answers.