Snake River Junior High Principal Arraigned On 3 Counts Of Sexual Abuse

Snake River Junior High School Principal Christopher Cox was arraigned in Blackfoot on Thursday morning on three separate felony counts of sexual abuse with a child under the age of 16.

The 38-year-old Cox has retained a private attorney.

Cox was released without bail to the custody of his wife. However, 7th District Magistrate Judge Charles Roos issued an order barring Cox from coming into contact with the alleged victim, the alleged victim’s family or any minor under the age of 18 except his own children.

Each of the three counts carries up to a 25-year prison term as well as a $50,000 fine.

Cox was arrested by Bingham County Sheriff Dave Johnson after investigating a complaint from a student who has since moved to another state.

“The allegations and admissions include him going to the victim’s home. Things not just happening at school, but also off campus where he had to go places,” said Bingham County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Randy Smith. “So there is a concern regarding the safety of other members of the community.”

Cox has been principal for two years and has been placed on administrative leave for now. Snake River School District Superintendent Russell Hammond said he isn’t sure when a permanent decision will be made, but the next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday. The district is in the process of meeting with all administrative staff and bringing them up to date.

“One of our major concerns is student safety, and when things like this happen, it really brings home how hard we need to focus on that students are safe and staff are safe in our school district,” said Hammond.

The school said additional counselors are available to students who need to talk.

A preliminary hearing for Cox has been set for March 1 at 8:30 a.m.