Former School Employee Faces 11 Felony Charges for Abuse

UPDATE: A former employee of the Visalia Unified School District, De Jaun Jones, is facing 11 felony counts related to sexual abuse, following allegations that he exchanged nude photos with a 15-year-old girl and engaged in inappropriate touching during the 2022-2023 school year. The Tulare County District Attorney’s office has confirmed these serious charges, which have emerged as more young women come forward with credible allegations.

Attorney Brendan Gilbert, representing the victims, stated that Jones is a “textbook predator” who has victimized minors throughout his career. “He’s been involved in inappropriate actions at various jobs,” Gilbert emphasized. Jones, who worked as a campus supervisor at Mount Whitney High School, was previously terminated from the same position in 2013 due to similar allegations. Gilbert criticized the district for rehiring him in 2022, stating, “They did everything right in 2013 but then did everything wrong by bringing him back.”

In addition to the current allegations, Jones has faced accusations of similar misconduct while employed at Monache High School in the Porterville Unified School District and at an In-Shape gym. Gilbert is now also representing a second teenager who has made accusations against Jones, highlighting a disturbing pattern of behavior.

The preliminary hearing for Jones is set for November 13, 2023. If convicted, he could face substantial prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender. The Visalia Unified School District has been approached for a response but has not returned requests for comment.

This developing story raises critical questions about school safety and the protection of students. As more details unfold, the community remains on high alert regarding the implications for safety within educational environments. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent case.