Boise Substitute Teacher and Assistant Baseball Coach Arrested on Charges of Child Sexual Abuse
Boise, ID — A substitute teacher and assistant high school baseball coach in Boise has been arrested on serious charges involving child sexual abuse of a minor under the age of 16. The arrest follows a multi-state investigation that began in California and ultimately led to the suspect’s apprehension in Idaho.
The suspect, 25-year-old Tyler Chorjel, was taken into custody on Tuesday, April 9, and booked into the Ada County Jail. According to law enforcement officials, Chorjel is accused of engaging in criminal conduct involving two juvenile victims, and the investigation is ongoing.
The allegations stem from a case initially opened by the Newport Beach Police Department in California. Authorities there received a tip involving online sexual exploitation. Investigators allege that Chorjel used deceptive tactics, including posing as a 16-year-old boy on social media platforms, to target and manipulate underage girls. He is accused of soliciting explicit photographs and videos from at least two juvenile females using this false identity.
As the case unfolded, Newport Beach authorities coordinated with Boise Police after tracing digital evidence back to Idaho. Boise law enforcement officials worked swiftly to identify and locate Chorjel, leading to his arrest earlier this week. Additional charges may be filed as investigators continue to analyze digital devices and interview potential witnesses.
In a statement released Tuesday, the Boise School District confirmed that Chorjel was employed as a substitute teacher and had recently served as an assistant coach for one of the district’s high school baseball teams. The district emphasized that there is currently no indication that any of the alleged crimes took place on school grounds or involved Boise School District students, but noted that the investigation is still in its early stages.
“We are shocked and deeply disturbed by these allegations,” the district said in its statement. “The safety of our students is our highest priority, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation. Mr. Chorjel has been immediately removed from all district assignments, and he will not be returning in any capacity.”
Chorjel’s arrest has sent ripples through the local community, particularly among parents and students who knew him as a teacher or coach. The school district has offered counseling resources to students and staff who may be impacted by the news.
Law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with additional information about Chorjel or his activities to come forward. Authorities are particularly interested in identifying any additional victims who may have been targeted online or in person.
As of Wednesday morning, Chorjel remained in custody at the Ada County Jail. Formal charges are expected to be announced later this week. If convicted, Chorjel could face significant prison time and be required to register as a sex offender.
Given the nature of the accusations and the ongoing status of the case, further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Community Response and Legal Proceedings
Community leaders and advocacy groups have reacted with dismay to the arrest, calling for greater awareness and protections against online exploitation of minors. “This case is yet another stark reminder of the dangers our children face on the internet,” said Lisa Martinez, director of a Boise-based child safety advocacy group. “We must be vigilant as a community to educate and protect our kids.”
Legal experts note that the case may span multiple jurisdictions, which could complicate the prosecution process. Federal charges could also be considered, especially if digital evidence suggests that materials were transmitted across state lines.
Parents are being encouraged to speak with their children about safe online behavior and to report any suspicious interactions or experiences to authorities.
As this troubling story continues to unfold, both law enforcement and the Boise School District have reiterated their commitment to transparency and accountability, with a pledge to support any victims who may come forward.