Secret indictment levels sex charges against former Warren charter school teacher
A Howland man who formerly taught math at a Warren charter school has pleaded not guilty to five counts in a secret indictment alleging sex crimes committed against a fifteen-year-old girl.
Jordan Owens, 29, is charged with attempted sexual battery, two counts of importuning, disseminating matter harmful to juveniles, and illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material.
Owens, according to River Gate High School Principal Jason Cooper, is no longer employed by the school following an investigation into the allegations by Warren Police and officials of the school which serves students at risk of dropping out.
The indictment, which says Owens was involved with the teen in October and November, includes an attempted sexual battery count which was filed because Owens was a teacher at the time.
Owens is accused of creating nude images of the teen and sharing obscene material with juveniles.
River Gate Principal Jason Cooper released a statement that reads in part:
River Gate is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of our students and maintaining a learning environment that upholds high values and standards. River Gate High School’s employee handbook and policies clearly state our expectations and focus on safety and ethical behavior. In addition, all River Gate High School employees are required to pass a background check. Any employee who breaches codes of conduct or standards of expected behavior is subject to discipline up to and including termination from employment.
Owens is free on $20,000 bail on the condition that he have no contact with the alleged victim.
His next court hearing is set for Wednesday.