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Ross Ashenfelter, a teacher from Lake Roosevelt Elementary School located at 503 Crest Dr #505, Coulee Dam, WA 99116, was taken into custody on October 13 by Kittitas County deputies. The arrest follows allegations of inappropriate communication with a minor, according to NBC Right Now.
The arrest is part of an ongoing investigation by the Washington task force on Internet-facilitated Crimes Against Children. Authorities revealed that the 42-year-old teacher had sent an electronic message to someone they believed was a minor. However, the recipient was actually an undercover detective from the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office, as confirmed by Inspector Chris Whitsett.
The teacher was arrested at the school while performing administrative duties during a school holiday. Following their detention, they were transported to Ellensburg and booked into the Kittitas County Jail. The charge, “Communication with a minor for immoral purposes,” will be prosecuted in Kittitas County because the alleged crime is considered to have occurred in both the location of the communication’s origin and where it was received.
Sheriff Clay Myers underscored the importance of safeguarding young people, stating, “Protecting children has long been a top priority for law enforcement in our community, and we will continue to use our abilities and resources to pursue anyone who would harm kids, wherever and whoever they are.”
The Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information related to the case to contact Kittcom at (509)-925-8534 and reference case number S25-14609. Investigators aim to ensure all relevant details are brought to light as the case moves forward.
When allegations of sexual misconduct by a teacher surface, families are often left grappling with what steps to take next. In the wake of the arrest of a Lake Roosevelt Elementary teacher, parents may wonder about their legal rights and the paths available to seek accountability. Mike Pfau, a Washington lawyer with extensive experience in sexual abuse cases, shares valuable guidance on how families can act to protect their children and demand accountability from those responsible.
Editor Darla Medina: When families learn of a situation where a teacher has harmed a child, what legal options can they consider?
Attorney Mike Pfau: Families can explore both criminal and civil avenues. While criminal cases are handled by prosecutors and aim to hold the perpetrator accountable to the law, civil cases allow families to seek compensation for the harm caused and to hold other parties, such as school districts, responsible if they failed to protect the child.
Medina: How might a school district be held accountable in such cases?
Pfau: If the district was negligent—say, by failing to conduct proper background checks, ignoring complaints, or not addressing suspicious behavior—they could be held liable. Civil lawsuits can address these failures and push for systemic changes to prevent future incidents.
Medina: What would you advise families to do if they suspect their child has been harmed by a teacher?
Pfau: The first step is to report it to law enforcement. They have the tools to investigate and intervene. Simultaneously, it’s important to consult an attorney experienced in these matters to explore civil options and ensure the child’s rights and well-being are prioritized. Families should also seek counseling or therapy for their child to help them process and heal.
Medina: Can legal action encourage broader change within schools?
Pfau: Absolutely. Civil cases not only address the harm done but also highlight systemic issues. They often result in policy reviews, better training for staff, and stronger protective measures within schools. These efforts create a safer environment for all children.
If you or your family has been affected by teacher misconduct, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your legal rights and options is a critical step in protecting your child and seeking accountability. Our team is here to provide guidance and support. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to explore how we can help you move forward.
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