On Tuesday, March 17, Renton detectives arrested a 36-year-old Tukwila man on suspicion of Communication with a Minor for Immoral Purposes and Sexual Contact with a Minor. Police say the arrest happened at about 5:30 p.m., and the man was booked into jail with bail set at $20,000. Officers also identified him as an employee of Hazen High School in Renton.
What police say
According to a post from the Renton Police Department on Facebook, detectives arrested the suspect after an investigation and booked him into custody. The department’s post lists the two suspected charges, notes the $20,000 bail and a court condition that bars him from any contact with minors, and states that the department notified the Renton School District. Detectives also asked anyone with information to contact Detective Billingsley at [email protected].
Charges and legal context
Under Washington law, “communication with a minor for immoral purposes” is defined in RCW 9.68A.090. The statute is typically treated as a gross misdemeanor but can be elevated to a Class C felony in certain situations, such as when there are prior sexual convictions or when electronic communications are used in trafficking-related conduct. Definitions for “sexual contact” and related sex offenses are laid out in chapter 9A.44 RCW, which will guide how prosecutors classify any case if formal charges are filed.
At this stage, these are allegations, and the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
School notified; Hazen High identified
The Renton Police Department’s post states that the suspect works at Hazen High School and that the Renton School District has been notified. Hazen High’s contact page lists the campus at 1101 Hoquiam Ave NE in Renton. Police are urging anyone who might have information that could help the investigation to come forward.
Local enforcement context
Renton detectives have in recent years run undercover operations and broader investigations into online solicitations and suspected predators. A December 2024 undercover operation led to multiple arrests, according to the Renton Reporter. Regional coverage from outlets such as KIRO 7 shows investigators frequently seeking tips and coordinating with partner agencies on cases involving minors. Those past efforts give a sense of how local authorities approach sensitive allegations while leaning on the community for information.
What happens next
The case will be reviewed by prosecutors, and any potential charges will remain allegations unless and until they are proven in court. Renton detectives reiterated that anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Billingsley at [email protected].
