Upper Gwynedd resident Jason Theodore, 54, is being held in jail without bail following his arrest on charges including involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault, and unlawful contact with a minor, according to the Montgomery County District Attorney’s office. Investigators state that three victims have reported sexual abuse occurring between 2019 and 2023, prompting authorities to appeal for additional potential victims to come forward.
Arrest and Charges Filed Against Montgomery County Coach
Theodore worked as a physical education teacher at Montgomery Elementary School and coached wrestling at Pennbrook Middle School within the North Penn School District. Prosecutors also noted his involvement as a local hockey coach and with the IRONKnights Elementary Triathlon. Police arrested Theodore on a Friday, and a judge denied him bail during his Saturday arraignment. A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for Oct. 1.
The criminal investigation began after a young adult reported enduring years of sexual abuse that started when the victim was approximately 13 years old. The victim initially met the individual online before discovering that person was Theodore, according to statements from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s office. Investigators subsequently identified two additional victims, including a former student who reported that online contact began after they had left Theodore’s class.
North Penn School District Response and Support Services
The North Penn School District placed Theodore on administrative leave on Sept. 9 immediately after law enforcement notified district administration of the active investigation. District officials stated there is no evidence indicating that any of the alleged incidents took place on school property.
Superintendent Todd Bauer addressed the school community in a letter regarding the arrest. “I understand that this news is difficult to hear. I am also struggling to process the information. Because of the accused’s work with the IRONKnights Elementary Triathlon and his role in coaching athletics, his involvement with North Penn families extends across the district,” Bauer wrote to families and employees.
In response to the developments, the school district made counselors available at Montgomery Elementary School, Pennbrook Middle School, and North Penn High School to support students, staff, and families affected by the news.
Investigation Contacts for Additional Victims
Law enforcement authorities have expressed concern that additional victims may exist due to the suspect’s extensive involvement with youth athletics and schools across the region. Investigators urge anyone who believes they or someone they know was a victim of Jason Theodore to contact Montgomery County Detective Dana Ganard directly at 610-278-3368.