Bannock County Chief Deputy Coroner arrested on multiple child sexual abuse charges

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — The chief deputy coroner for Bannock County is behind bars following an investigation into allegations that he sexually abused two underage girls over several years.

54-year-old Jonathan Ray Farnsworth, who also served as the North Bannock Fire Chief, faces multiple felony charges. According to court records, Farnsworth has been charged with four counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16, one count of rape, and one count of sexual exploitation of a child.

Investigators state the case came to light after one of the alleged victims, who is now an adult, contacted law enforcement. She reportedly told police she came forward out of concern that the abuse could still be ongoing with other victims.

Farnsworth was arrested last Thursday at the Bannock County Coroner's Office.

Following his arrest, police transported Farnsworth to the Pocatello Police Department for questioning. He was later booked into the Power County Jail in American Falls.

Farnsworth's preliminary hearing has been set for June 9th.

This is a developing story. Local News 8 will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.