Former Coeur d'Alene School District employee arrested in Washington child exploitation sting
KAYE THORNBRUGH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 1 month AGO
Kaye Thornbrugh is a second-generation Kootenai County resident who has been with the Coeur d’Alene Press for six years. She primarily covers Kootenai County’s government, as well as law enforcement, the legal system and North Idaho College. | September 3, 2025 1:00 AM
COEUR d’ALENE — A former Coeur d’Alene School District employee was among a dozen people arrested last week in Battle Ground, Wash., on suspicion of being involved in the sexual abuse and exploitation of children.
Jonathan Mahn, 57, of Liberty Lake, Wash., was arrested during “Operation Battle Ground,” a multi-day sting operation involving numerous law enforcement agencies that aimed to find people “seeking to exploit children,” according to a news release.
The primary crimes police are investigating are attempted first- and second-degree rape of a child, communication with a minor for immoral purposes and sexual exploitation of a minor.
Mahn worked for the Coeur d’Alene School District as a communications and multimedia specialist from January 2019 until March 2025, according to the district. During his tenure, he worked in the district office administration building. His work included “occasionally taking photos and video and district events,” according to the school district.
“His employment was terminated in March for reasons unrelated to the allegations reported by the media,” the district said in a statement issued Tuesday. “At no time during Mr. Mahn’s employment did the district receive or become aware of reports or concerns regarding his alleged behavior.”
During the targeted operation in Battle Ground, 12 men were arrested. Of those, five were from Washington, six were from Oregon and one was from New York, according to a news release.
More than 60 people from 20 different law enforcement agencies from Washington, Oregon and New York, including the Spokane Police Department, participated in the operation.
“The safety of our children will always be our top priority and this operation sends a clear message,” Battle Ground Chief of Police Dennis Flynn said in a news release. “Child exploitation will not be tolerated in Battle Ground or anywhere else.”
The Coeur d’Alene School District said it would fully cooperate with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” the district said Tuesday.
Mahn is scheduled for arraignment next week in Clark County, according to court records.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, reach Safe Passage 24/7 by calling 208-664-9303 or texting 208-449-7228.
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