YUMA, Ariz. – A teacher at Gila Vista Junior High School was arrested Wednesday afternoon and is facing one charge of attempted sexual exploitation.
Christopher Knoles, an eighth grade science teacher, appeared in court shortly after his arrest. The 47-year-old is being held on a $50,000 bond, according to Yuma County Justice Court officials.
Yuma Police Department (YPD) officers say they worked with Yuma School District 1 in a lengthy investigation leading to Knoles’ arrest. It is not known what kind of relationship Knoles had with the minor, including whether the minor was one of his students. Officers did not specify when the alleged exploitation took place.
Yuma Elementary School District 1, Superintendent Dr. Darwin Stiffler, issued the following statement after Knoles’ arrest.
“Yuma School District One is deeply committed to providing students with a safe and secure learning environment. On January 27, 2016, the District was notified that a teacher from Gila Vista Junior High School was arrested for allegations attempted sexual exploitation of a minor. The allegations do not involve any current District One students. Upon notice, the District immediately placed the teacher on administrative leave. We want to assure all our community members that the District is fully cooperating with the law enforcement investigation and will take appropriate responsive action.”
Knoles is scheduled to appear in court Friday at 1 p.m.