Ashland Man Charged with Sex Crimes Against 5-Year-Old Student

Ashland, Oregon- Craig Albert Johnson, a 68-year-old resident of Ashland, was arrested on July 30, 2024, following an investigation into the sexual exploitation of a five-year-old child. Johnson, who worked at Children’s World Montessori School in Ashland, is facing multiple charges, including Invasion of Personal Privacy in the First Degree, Encouraging Child Sex Abuse in the First Degree, and Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct.

The investigation began on July 19, 2024, when the Central Point Police Department (CPPD) received a report of potential sexual exploitation. The department’s Criminal Investigations Division took over the case, leading to Johnson’s arrest. He is currently lodged at Jackson County Jail.

Authorities revealed that additional instances of child exploitation occurred at the Montessori school where Johnson was employed. The Ashland Police Department (APD) joined the investigation, working closely with the CPPD. Several victims, all female, have been identified, and efforts are ongoing to identify more potential victims.

Children’s World Montessori School is cooperating with the investigation. Law enforcement agencies involved, including the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, are working to address the situation and continue their investigation.

Detectives have indicated that more charges may be added as the investigation proceeds.

Community members with information are urged to contact Detective Lacie Six at the Ashland Police Department.

This remains an active investigation, no additional information has been provided by authorities.