Northshore School District Teacher Arrested for Attempted Child Rape

John E. Butz, a 61-year-old teacher from the Northshore School District, was arrested on December 10, 2024, in Redmond for attempted child rape. The arrest was made during a multi-agency operation involving local detectives and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force. Investigators discovered that Butz had been engaging in online communications with a detective posing as a minor, leading to a planned meeting at a hotel for illicit purposes. Currently, Butz is being held at the King County Correctional Facility, while authorities continue their investigation.

The Redmond Police Department is urging parents who suspect their child may have been targeted to report their concerns to local law enforcement. This incident highlights the persistent threat of child exploitation and the vital work being done to combat it. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding children against such predatory behaviors. The operation reflects a broader commitment to child safety and protection in the region.