A former teacher is facing a felony charge connected to an alleged sex crime involving a 15-year-old student-age girl more than two decades ago.
John Matthew Lotz, 62, of Terre Haute, Indiana, has been charged in Douglas County, Kansas, with one felony count of indecent liberties with a child involving intercourse.
The charge stems from allegations dating back to 2001, when Lotz worked in the Lawrence school system.
Lawrence police said they are now seeking additional information from anyone who may have had contact with Lotz during that time or in later years.
Woman Came Forward Last Year
According to investigators, a woman contacted Lawrence police in December and reported that she had a sexual relationship with Lotz in 2001, when she was 15 years old.
Court documents allege that Lotz engaged in intercourse with the teenager between February 1, 2001, and April 1, 2001.
Police told KMBC 9 Investigates that Lotz and the girl met through an online chat room. Investigators also said at least part of the alleged sexual relationship occurred at Lawrence High School. Police said Lotz was not one of the girl’s teachers.
Lotz Worked In Local Schools
Lawrence police said Lotz served as a student teacher at Lawrence Free State High School from 1999 to 2000. He later worked as a drama and English teacher at Lawrence High School from 2000 to 2001.
Authorities said his time in the education field did not end after leaving Lawrence. Lotz most recently worked at Indiana State University as the Assistant Director of Business Engagement, where he also focused on entrepreneurship education.
Indiana State University released a statement saying it was aware that a former employee had been charged with criminal offenses in Kansas. The university said it would not comment further due to the ongoing criminal investigation.
Police Ask Others To Come Forward
Lawrence Police Officer Molly May first interviewed Lotz in Indiana about the allegations. Police said Lotz later traveled to Lawrence for another interview. After that, investigators said they had enough information to recommend charges to prosecutors.
May said investigators do not want anyone to believe too much time has passed to report possible incidents involving Lotz.
She said it is important for police to investigate all available avenues and for anyone with information to feel comfortable coming forward.
Bond And Legal Status
Lotz is being held in the Douglas County Jail on a $100,000 bond. A phone call to Lawrence Public Schools and Lotz’s appointed public defender was not immediately returned, according to the report.
The case remains active as investigators continue seeking additional information.
Support Available For Survivors
Because the case involves allegations of sexual assault, support is available for survivors who may be affected by the report.
The Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault provides help through a 24-hour crisis line. People in Missouri can call 816-531-0233, while people in Kansas can call 913-642-0233.
A former Lawrence teacher is facing a felony charge tied to an alleged 2001 sex crime involving a 15-year-old girl. Police say the woman came forward last year, leading to interviews and a charging recommendation.
As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone with additional information about John Matthew Lotz to contact law enforcement.