BREAKING NEWS: A Polk County District Judge has ordered former East Grand Forks teacher John Kinzler to stand trial on multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct. This urgent decision comes following allegations from several students who accused him of inappropriate touching during the 1989-90 school year.
According to Polk County Court Administrator Jim O’Neill, Judge Russell Anderson confirmed that Kinzler, aged 30, faces a total of nine counts of second-degree and nine counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. The allegations stem from reports from five girls who claimed Kinzler put his hand on their buttocks while he was teaching. Further investigations revealed similar accusations from two additional students.
Kinzler has denied all allegations against him. Despite facing serious charges, he remains employed at Central Middle School, where he has taught for several years and also coached girls basketball until his resignation on October 22. As part of his bail conditions, he has been released on his own recognizance but is prohibited from contacting the students involved in the case.
No trial date has been set yet, but sources indicate it will likely not take place until at least January. This ongoing situation raises significant concerns among parents and the community regarding the safety and well-being of students in educational settings.
As this story develops, the East Grand Forks community is urged to stay informed on the legal proceedings surrounding Kinzler’s case. The implications of this trial could have lasting effects on those involved and the broader educational environment in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent matter as further details emerge.
