UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, former Visalia Unified School District employee De Jaun Jones faces 11 felony charges of sexual abuse following disturbing allegations involving minor girls. The Tulare County District Attorney’s office confirmed the charges, which stem from incidents during the 2022-2023 school year.
Jones, a former campus supervisor at Mount Whitney High School, has been accused of exchanging nude photos and engaging in inappropriate touching with a 15-year-old girl in 2023. This alarming case has drawn significant public attention, especially as attorney Brendan Gilbert, representing the victim, labeled Jones a “textbook predator,” highlighting his history of misconduct.
What makes this situation even more troubling is that Jones was previously fired from the same school a decade ago for similar accusations. Gilbert stated, “Mount Whitney High School did everything right in 2013 when they released Jones from his employment but then did everything wrong when they brought him back in 2022.” This decision has raised questions about the district’s vetting process.
Moreover, Gilbert represents a second victim who has come forward with allegations against Jones, emphasizing the systemic failure that allowed him to be rehired. He expressed outrage, stating, “He should not have been rehired by the district in 2022 given that they had released him 10 years before for very serious misconduct.”
Authorities report that at least three young women have come forward with credible accusations against Jones, which also include claims of similar behavior during his time at Monache High School and an In-Shape gym. The serious nature of these charges could result in significant prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender if Jones is convicted.
Jones’ preliminary hearing is set for November 13, 2023, and the community is watching closely as new details emerge. This case not only highlights the critical need for safeguarding minors in educational environments but also raises pressing questions about accountability within school districts.
As the investigation unfolds, many are demanding answers from the Visalia Unified School District. Despite multiple inquiries, the district has yet to respond to requests for comment on this troubling situation.
Stay updated on this developing story as it continues to unfold. For more news, follow Vince Ybarra on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
