A 57-year-old Fairfield High School teacher has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies following an investigation into alleged inappropriate contact with a juvenile student via social media.
Vannen Crabtree Jr. of Richland, Iowa, was taken into custody on February 5th, after a week-long investigation by the Fairfield Police Department.
The investigation began on Wednesday, January 28th, when officers received a complaint from a concerned parent regarding their daughter, a student at Fairfield High School. The parent reported suspicions of inappropriate contact between the juvenile female and Crabtree, an adult male teacher at the school, through social media platforms.
The Fairfield Police Department immediately launched an investigation into the allegations. Over the course of the inquiry, officers gathered sufficient evidence to obtain search warrants related to the case. Those warrants were granted and executed on Thursday, February 5th.
Crabtree faces the following charges:
- Sexual Exploitation by a School Employee (Class D Felony)
- Grooming (Class D Felony)
- Lascivious Acts with a Minor (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
According to the Fairfield Police Department, aspects of this case remain under investigation. Authorities have indicated that additional information may be released as it becomes available, though details will remain limited to protect the identity of the juvenile victim.
He is currently being held at the Jefferson County Correctional Facility with no bond pending an initial court appearance.
Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Officer Nielsen at 641-472-4146.
The Fairfield Police Department received assistance in this investigation from the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
In a statement on Friday, February 6th, the Fairfield Community School District said: “On Wednesday, February 4th, law enforcement notified high school administration that one of our teachers was involved in an investigation. Upon receiving this information, we immediately placed him on administrative leave and shared relevant information with those who needed to know. As the investigation continued, law enforcement kept us informed of its progress. Late last night, we were notified that teacher had been arrested. We will share additional information as it becomes available.”
Edited to add the school statement.
