YUMA, Ariz. – A Gila Vista Junior High School teacher appeared in court Friday afternoon after being arrested for attempted sexual exploitation of a minor.
Yuma police say, 47-year-old Christopher Knoles, asked for nude photos of a 15-year-old girl and former student on social media.
Knoles was accused of two allegations of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor; both are class three felonies.
In court, Knoles’ defense attorney requested his client be able to leave the state of Arizona and reside elsewhere. The defense said this has been extremely difficult on Knoles and that he can no longer find a job at this point in time. The attorney also said it would be helpful for the alleged victim if Knoles was not in the Yuma community. The judge accepted the request, but said Knoles has to be in contact with his attorney and must return to Yuma for his future court hearings.
Speaking for the alleged victim was an Amberly’s Place advocate who said the 15-year-old girl will never be the same.
“She really respected him as a teacher. Now her heart is broken and fears she can never trust a teacher again. He took advantage of her when she was vulnerable and that was not right especially as a teacher.” said the advocate.
Knoles is to return to Yuma County Court on February 16th for his preliminary hearing.