MONROE, Mich. – The case has been dismissed against a school crossing guard who was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with a 13-year-old girl in Monroe.
On Aug. 30, 2025, at 9:42 p.m., Monroe police received a report of a possible intimate encounter between an older man and a young girl inside a car parked near the MLK Jr. Pedestrian Bridge.
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A detective responded and found a 23-year-old man and the minor at the scene, he said.
During the investigation, police said the man admitted to having a sexual relationship with the girl, claiming they were dating.
The man also told police that he works part-time as a crossing guard for Ida Public Schools, according to authorities.
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025, the case against the man was dismissed due to an uncooperative complaintant, officials said.
In a statement at the time of the investigation, the district superintendent confirmed the man’s employment was terminated upon learning of the situation, before the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
Local law enforcement is conducting a thorough investigation, and the district is cooperating fully with the authorities. Since the allegations do not appear to involve Ida Public Schools and since law enforcement is handling the investigation, we would direct all questions to the Monroe City Police Department.
Ida Public Schools takes any allegation of misconduct seriously. The district has high expectations for our teachers and staff, including those that have limited access to students or only work a small number of hours each week. District policies describe our code of conduct and expected behaviors – and they apply to both part-time and full-time employees. These expectations establish a safe and positive environment where students are positioned for growth and achievement, be it academically, athletically, or in the arts.
Our mission as a district is to provide a safe learning experience, exceptional academics, skills to meet the challenges of the future, and the means to become lifelong learners. Our teachers and staff members are focused on student success. If you have any questions regarding your student’s experience, please feel free to reach out to your teacher or your building principal. If you have information regarding the misconduct allegations, please contact the Monroe Police Department.
The district appreciates the support of our Ida families and the entire community. Working together we are making a difference in the lives of our students and ensuring that our district values and traditions continue to make an impact for years to come. We are grateful for your partnership.
Superintendent David Eack
Police said there is no evidence that Warthen engaged in inappropriate conduct or communication with other minors.
Warthen was arrested and booked into the Monroe County Jail on third-degree criminal sexual conduct charges.
He was arraigned in First District Court and is being held on a $100,000 cash or surety bond.
The investigation is ongoing.