Investigation continues involving Longview high-school students

On Thursday, Feb. 19 at 8:07 a.m. the Longview Police Department (LPD) arrested two juveniles in connection with “the ongoing investigation involving allegations of criminal misconduct at Mark Morris High School,” according to a statement issued by LPD. The two juveniles were taken into custody on the charges of rape in the second degree, unlawful imprisonment with sexual motivation, indecent liberties with forcible compulsion, and indecent exposure. According to LPD, since the case involves minors, “no additional identifying information will be released.” The investigation remains active, as detectives “continue to review evidence and conduct interviews as they examine all aspects of the case.” According to the LPD report, “there is no known ongoing threat to students.” LPD Chief Robert Huhta said, “The safety of our students remains our first and highest priority. The Longview Police Department will continue to examine every aspect of this case thoroughly and objectively.” Though neither the City of Longview nor the LPD will be giving interviews, they invite anyone with information regarding criminal conduct to contact LPD at 360-442-5800 or to call 911.

Acknowledging “the very serious concerns of many families and community members regarding the allegations involving students at Mark Morris High School,” Longview Public Schools Superintendent Karen L. Cloninger, at a school board meeting on Monday, Feb. 23, said, “When families are worried about their children’s safety, nothing else feels more important. I am a parent, too, and I understand why people are demanding answers. At Longview Public Schools, our first and most important responsibility is the safety and well-being of our students. The allegations in this matter are deeply troubling and go against everything our district stands for. As difficult as it may be, it is critical that we allow our legal system to investigate and address these allegations.”

Cloninger also noted the complaints of families that “the district did not communicate enough, or quickly enough” and that she understands their frustration. “I take that feedback to heart, and I am committed to improving how we communicate during difficult moments while protecting student privacy and following the law,” said Cloninger. “I understand the desire to know more details about this situation. At the same time, school districts are legally required to protect the privacy of all students. This matter is also the subject of an ongoing law enforcement investigation. For those reasons, I am very limited in what I can share, even when I know that it is frustrating for our community.”

Affirming the district “remains committed to cooperating with the ongoing law enforcement investigation,” Cloninger stated that she has “engaged a third-party investigator to review athletics-related supervision and safety practices, including reporting processes and expectations for adult supervision.” Recognizing that the current investigation, once complete “may inform their next steps,” Cloninger stated the district “will engage a separate outside investigator to review district practices.” Before thanking everyone for attending the Feb. 23 meeting, Cloninger said, “I know some families have said this situation has damaged their trust in the district. That is deeply concerning to me. Trust is earned through consistent actions, not just words. Rebuilding trust will take time, and it will require follow-through. I am committed to doing that work in partnership with our community.”

During the same meeting, Longview Public Schools Board President Don Wiitala, assuring families and community members that their concerns are heard, said, “We understand the fear and frustration many of you are carrying, and we share the expectation that our schools must be safe, respectful places for every student…We are committed to learning from this moment and strengthening our systems and processes so student safety remains at the center of everything we do.”

Further details surrounding the investigation will be reported once it is complete.