Former paraeducator at Riverside Elementary, Dallas Shuler, was arrested on two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor amid a host of other charges. His bond was set at $25,000.

The public first learned about disturbing allegations against a paraeducator from Riverside Elementary School who was suspected of having depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit activities. Riverside School Superintendent Ken Russell, on May 8th, sent out an email message to inform the families and staff in the school district of the allegations.  

Upon being notified of the allegations on May 7th, the district took immediate action, placing the accused on administrative leave. This action relieved the individual of all duties, prohibited them from entering school premises, and enforced a strict no-contact policy with students and staff. 

The investigation was initiated on May 6th after a Spokane County Detective assigned to investigate child exploitation and human trafficking crimes received information regarding a child sexual abuse video. As the investigation progressed, the suspect was eventually identified as 28-year-old Dallas M. Shuler. The suspect was employed as a paraeducator with Riverside Elementary and has also served as a coach at Riverside High School. The Spokane Sheriff’s Office informed the Riverside School District Administration.

Shuler was apprehended without issue around 9:30am on May 11th and promptly taken into custody. He has been booked into the Spokane County Jail on two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Dealing in the Depictions of Minors Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct, and Possession of Depictions of Minors Engaged in Sexual Explicit Conduct. 

Spokane County Superior Court Commissioner Julia Pelc reviewed the probable cause affidavit on May 12, 2024, and set Shuler’s total bond at $25,000. 

Today, Monday, May 13th, marks Shuler’s scheduled first appearance hearing.

Riverside School District Administrators have been cooperative with Detectives as they work to determine whether the suspect committed any additional criminal acts and whether additional charges are warranted. This remains an active investigation, and no further information is available at this time.   

Sources:

• Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. “Major Crimes Detectives Arrest Paraeducator for Child Exploitation Charges.” Spokane County Washington, 13 May 2024, Spokanecounty.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=5084. Accessed 13 May 2024.