Criminal Charges Dropped Against Duluth Edison Teacher Accused of Sexual Assault of Student

Duluth, MN–Criminal charges have been dropped against a Duluth Edison elementary school teacher who had been accused of sexually assaulting a female student.

His attorney said the allegations “were fake” and that he “never sexually assaulted anyone.”

John Paul Horgeshimer, age 49, had been charged after a female student at Duluth Edison Charter Schools’ Raleigh Academy told her teacher that he had assaulted her in a school stairwell.

The St. Louis County Attorney’s office charged him with two felony counts: first and second degree criminal sexual conduct with a child under the age of 14.

St. Louis County prosecutor Nate Stumme said the charges have been dismissed, but said, “I cannot comment on the reasons for the dismissal as the investigation remains open.”

Horgeshimer’s attorney, Andrew Poole, said, “What happened to Mr. Horgeshimer is scary.  Based upon false allegations, he was charged with serious crimes, one of which requires a presumptive prison sentence if convicted.  These allegations, however, were fake.  He never sexually assaulted anybody, and it is disappointing that he had to suffer from such a needless attack on his reputation,” Poole said.

While Stumme said the investigation remains open, he said, “I cannot comment on the likelihood of recharging.”

At the time of the charges, the school had notified parents that student safety was important, and that they were cooperating fully with law enforcement, and encouraged anyone with information to go to the police.

Regarding the fast-moving events and the dropped criminal charges, Poole said, “This matter underscores the importance of the presumption of innocence, and how a quick rush to judgment can be very damaging.”