A custodian contracted to work at Fruitport High School has been taken into custody on suspicion of possessing materials involving minors that are considered inappropriate. The arrest, carried out by Michigan State Police detectives from the Internet Crimes Against Children division, has led to an investigation that, as of now, has not implicated any students from the school district.
Fruitport Community Schools Superintendent Jason Kennedy addressed the situation in a letter to families, explaining that the custodian in question, identified as Justin Hess by WZZM 13, was employed through a third-party contractor, highlighting that even though an individual is employed through a third party, a comprehensive background check and criminal history screening are conducted for everyone who works in a school, as was done in this case. This development came to light yesterday, and Hess was arraigned the following afternoon.
Superintendent Kennedy reassured parents, stating that detectives working on the case have confirmed there is 'zero evidence' to suggest that any students from Fruitport Community Schools are involved in this matter, according to a report from FOX 17 News. Kennedy has been in contact with Prosecutor DJ Hilson, who has promised to provide updates should the situation evolve to involve any students directly.
Concluding the swift action taken by authorities, Kennedy shared, "Members of the task force also walked through restrooms, locker rooms, and other areas where an expectation of privacy exists at our high school today looking for any additional evidence...," explaining that no further evidence was found, as detailed in the communication shared with parents. This search was part of the due diligence to ensure the privacy and safety of students and staff within the school's private spaces, which was also covered in a report by WZZM13. While the full implications of the arrest remain under investigation, the school administration and law enforcement are committed to transparency and the ongoing safety of the school community.
