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A special education teacher and coach from Johnstown, Scott Jeffers, has been arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a child. The 42-year-old is accused of engaging in inappropriate communications with a student under the age of 17. According to State Police, these communications were sexual in nature and included discussions of drug use and physical violence.
The investigation into Jeffers began in October when the superintendent of the Greater Johnstown School District reported allegations of inappropriate communications between Jeffers and students. Jeffers, who also served as a coach for various athletic teams at Johnstown High School, was placed on administrative leave once the investigation started. He was arrested on Thursday (December 11) and later arraigned at Johnstown City Court, where he was released on his own recognizance.
Jeffers, a Republican, also serves as a council member-at-large in Johnstown and is a board member for both the Fulton County Historical Society and Johnstown Public Library. The Times Union reports that he has previously expressed interest in running for mayor.
State Police are continuing their investigation to determine if there are additional victims. They urge anyone with information to contact them at 518-457-6811.