A 44-year-old Otsego man is facing felony sex crime charges after a 15-year-old foreign exchange student reported weeks of inappropriate contact inside the host home, according to court records. Prosecutors say the alleged abuse stretches from late 2025 into January 2026, and a warrant is now out for the suspect’s arrest. The claims are putting uncomfortable attention on how host families are screened and monitored in Wright County.
Allegations outlined in the complaint
According to FOX 9, a criminal complaint filed in Wright County District Court charges Matthew Johnathan Weaver, 44, with two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. The teenager told a school counselor on Jan. 13 that Weaver had been touching his "parts" for roughly a month and a half. The complaint states the first incident was reported to have occurred on Jan. 6 and the last the night before the disclosure to the counselor.
Investigators say they reviewed the student’s journal and messages in which Weaver allegedly used pet names such as "baby," "my love" and "mi amor." The complaint cites both the age difference and Weaver’s position of authority in the household as factors that support the felony charges.
What second-degree charges mean under state law
Under Minnesota law, certain sexual contact with minors becomes second-degree criminal sexual conduct when there is both a significant age gap and a position of authority or trust. The governing statute, Minn. Stat. § 609.343, spells out those age and authority conditions and allows for penalties of up to 25 years in prison along with potential fines, depending on the circumstances. That framework is what allows prosecutors to pursue second-degree counts when a 15-year-old complainant is accusing an adult host of sexual contact.
Defendant's response and investigation status
As reported by FOX 9, Weaver denied any sexual touching or propositions in an interview with a special agent while his attorney was present. He also said he did not watch pornography in front of the teenager. Weaver told investigators that the affectionate terms he used were "part of Spanish culture" and that he uses similar nicknames for his own children, according to the complaint. Authorities have not publicly identified any additional alleged victims, and it remains unclear when Weaver will first appear in court or what bail conditions might look like.
Where the case goes next
The case is filed in Wright County District Court, and public records as well as hearing dates can be searched through Minnesota Court Records Online and the Wright County court webpages. Members of the public who may have relevant information are generally directed to contact local law enforcement. Wright County court administration at the Justice Center in Buffalo can answer questions about filings and scheduling. Anyone seeking access to court documents can use the state case search tools or contact Wright County District Court for details on what is available under Minnesota public access rules.
