Pleasant Grove Junior High Teacher Arrested for Allegedly Abusing Student
PLEASANT GROVE, Utah — A 29-year-old history and guided studies teacher at Pleasant Grove Junior High School, Keaton Tanner, was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly sexually abusing a student. He faces charges of child rape and tampering with a witness.
According to a police report, the alleged abuse took place when the victim was between 12 and 13 years old. The allegations came to light after the victim confided in a friend about a "secret," leading them to contact law enforcement. The friend reported that Tanner had sexual relations with the victim at his former apartment in Orem. The victim later indicated the relationship ended after Tanner allegedly assaulted her.
After confronting Tanner at his current residence, the victim and her friend recorded a conversation where Tanner reportedly pressured the victim to downplay the relationship, suggesting she claim they simply "made out." He also allegedly offered her money, initially indicating he had $500 but claiming only $50 when he returned from his car.
The investigation revealed prior concerns about Tanner’s interactions with the victim; school officials had warned him previously about spending excessive time alone with her. Alarmingly, Tanner had applied for a one-year sabbatical to Germany shortly after the allegations surfaced, raising concerns that he may attempt to flee the country.
Tanner has been placed on administrative leave by the Alpine School District, which stated it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The district emphasized its commitment to student welfare, noting that all employees undergo thorough criminal background checks. "When we learn of employee conduct that may violate the trust patrons have placed in us, we take appropriate action to protect students," added district officials.
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