Longview Superintendent Arrested in Student Misconduct Investigation
The Longview Police Department announced the arrest of Longview Public Schools Superintendent Karen Cloninger on Thursday morning in connection with an active inquiry into reported sexual misconduct involving students at Mark Morris High School. The arrest took place at 9:26 a.m.
According to official statements, Cloninger faces one felony count of witness tampering. She also faces gross misdemeanor charges for failure to report and obstructing a law enforcement officer.
Authorities stated that charges are also pending for Andrew Schoonover, the Executive Director of Student Services for the district. Schoonover is expected to face counts of failure to report and making false or misleading statements to a public servant.
Investigation Timeline
Police records indicate that detectives learned on January 29 that school staff and district leadership, including the superintendent, were aware of allegations concerning physical and sexual misconduct among students. Investigators cited reports involving multiple students, including an account describing a student being forcibly dragged into a varsity team room, pinned to the ground, and partially disrobed.
As rumors regarding the incident spread across social media, police leadership contacted the superintendent on February 5 to inquire if law enforcement assistance was required. Authorities allege they were told the district had handled the matter internally.
A formal police investigation was initiated on February 9 following a report filed by a parent regarding a sexual assault. The inquiry, which utilized multiple search warrants, focused on mandatory reporting requirements, information provided to law enforcement, and internal communications.
Investigators developed probable cause alleging that district employees raised concerns regarding their reporting obligations and whether police should be contacted. According to the probable cause statement, employees were allegedly directed by the superintendent to address the matter internally and were discouraged from further discussion.
Official Statements
Police Chief Robert Huhta addressed the matter in a statement released Thursday. "This investigation required a significant amount of time, coordination, and evidence review," Huhta said. "We understand the significance this case has in our community and the concern it has created for students, families, staff, and the broader public."
Huhta added, "Keeping children safe is a shared community responsibility. I want to thank our detectives for the professionalism, diligence, and care they have shown throughout this investigation. Our responsibility is to follow the facts, conduct thorough investigations, protect the integrity of the process, and present information through the legal system appropriately."
Ongoing Inquiry
Officials confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Additional arrests or charges may be possible as detectives continue to pursue investigative leads.
Due to the active nature of the inquiry and anticipated court proceedings, city and police officials stated they will not be providing interviews or responding to media inquiries at this time.