Ogden School Resource Officer Arrested for Alleged Sexual Exploitation of Minors | News, sports, jobs

OGDEN – An Ogden City Police Department school officer was arrested Thursday afternoon after allegations of misconduct were discovered and investigated.

A press release sent late Thursday night claims the department learned last week that Officer Colten Johansen had “made a series of disclosures to an outside law enforcement agency that implied his involvement in criminal conduct.”

“Upon learning of these revelations, a criminal case was immediately opened and referred to the Davis County Sheriff’s Office,” the news release said. “Earlier this afternoon, the Davis County Sheriff’s Office arrested Officer Johansen on several criminal charges, including sexual exploitation of a minor, tampering with evidence and official misconduct. We have and will continue to cooperate fully with their investigation.”

Johansen is being held in the Davis County Jail on a $100,000 bond, according to booking records. Formal charges had not been filed as of Friday morning.

The release identifies the officer as “Colton Johansen,” but Lt. William Farr later confirmed to the Standard Examiner that the officer’s name is Colten.

The release adds that an internal affairs investigation has also been launched.

“Based on the information currently available, the conduct in question did not occur while Officer Johansen was acting in his capacity as a School Resource Officer,” the statement said. “Our investigation has nevertheless produced sufficient information to justify his dismissal.”

Around noon Friday, Ogden School District communications director Jer Bates emailed the Standard-Examiner an official statement confirming that Johansen had been an SRO in the district and was stationed at Ogden High School.

“First and foremost, it is important to emphasize that there is currently no evidence of any criminal activity involving Officer Johansen in connection with his role as a School Resource Officer at Ogden High School,” the statement said. “Our school remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. The Ogden Police Department has already replaced Officer Johansen with another school resource officer, and our support team is available to provide confidential support to any student or family who is concerned or feels affected by this situation.”

The statement adds that it will continue to monitor the investigation as it continues.

“We respect the investigation process and appreciate the quick action taken by the Ogden Police Department in their full cooperation with authorities. While we understand there may be questions and a need for further details, we encourage everyone to refrain from speculation and allow law enforcement to continue their work.

“Our priority remains the emotional and physical well-being of our students and staff, and we will continue to provide support to anyone affected by this situation.”

Bates said Friday was a teacher preparation day and students were not in school, but messages have been prepared to distribute to students and parents about the situation. He also emphasized that Johansen was not employed by the school district and was unsure how long Johansen had served as SRO in the district.

The investigation is being conducted by the Davis County Sheriff’s Office.

This is a developing story and may be updated.