URGENT UPDATE: In a significant legal development, former East Grand Forks teacher John Kinzler, aged 30, has been ordered to stand trial on multiple counts of criminal sexual conduct. The ruling comes after several students accused him of inappropriate touching during the 1989-90 school year.
Polk County District Judge Russell Anderson made the ruling today, confirming that Kinzler will face nine counts of second-degree and nine counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. This decision follows investigations where five girls reported that Kinzler placed his hands on their buttocks while they were students. Further inquiries revealed similar allegations from two additional girls.
Despite the serious charges, Kinzler has denied all wrongdoing. Currently, he remains free on his own recognizance, with a strict condition prohibiting any contact with the students who reported the incidents. Notably, he continues to teach at Central Middle School and has previously coached girls’ basketball for seven years. However, he resigned from that coaching position on October 22.
As of now, no trial date has been established, but officials indicate that it likely will not occur until at least January 2024. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety and well-being of students within educational environments.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as the legal proceedings develop. The East Grand Forks community is watching closely, with many eager for justice and accountability in this serious matter.
Stay tuned for further updates as this case unfolds.
