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WEST JORDAN — A West Jordan High School teacher has been arrested and accused of sexually abusing a student.
Matthew Jason Rueckert, 32, was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on Thursday for investigation of two counts of rape, two counts of object rape, four counts of forcible sodomy, eight counts of forcible sexual abuse and obstruction of justice.
By mid-morning Friday, the Jordan School District released a statement saying Rueckert is no longer employed by the district.
West Jordan High School administrators were notified of a "possible teacher-student relationship with a 16-year-old (girl)," according to a police booking affidavit.
After collecting interviews and surveillance video, as well as other evidence, police said they determined the sexual activity happened between November and February.
"The juvenile victim reported the majority of the crimes happened in the teacher's classroom," the affidavit states.
Rueckert also told the teen to delete "all content" on her cellphone, the affidavit alleges, and "has also tried to contact the victim through colleagues to communicate with her."
Rueckert's LinkedIn page describes him as a "secondary teacher" in the Jordan School District who used to work at a middle school in the Alpine District. He is also listed as the head coach for the boys varsity golf team on West Jordan High School's website.
Police say if there are more victims, they should contact law enforcement at 801-840-4000.
"This case illustrates the importance of parents maintaining effective lines of communication with their children regarding the various aspects of their lives," said West Jordan Police Sgt. Kendall Holt.
The Jordan School District also issued a prepared statement.
"Jordan School District takes all reports of employee misconduct very seriously. We do not tolerate any kind of misconduct or behavior endangering the safety of students. Allegations regarding the actions of a former West Jordan High School teacher were immediately investigated by the school and West Jordan police. Swift, appropriate action was taken. We are cooperating fully with police. Matthew Rueckert is no longer employed by Jordan School District. The safety and well-being of students is our top priority."
