Crime

Johnson County high school choir director arrested on suspicion of breach of privacy

Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, as seen on Google Maps street view images in November 2016.
Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, as seen on Google Maps street view images in November 2016. Google Maps

A teacher at Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park has been arrested on suspicion of breach of privacy.

Joe Heidesch, the school’s choir director, was booked into jail Wednesday and remained there Thursday morning, according to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. No bond had been set at that time, nor had formal charges been filed.

His initial court appearance is set for 1:30 p.m. Thursday.

In a letter sent to parents, high school administration said that Heidesch was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the police investigation.

“With this type of news, it is important to assure our students their safety and well-being are our top priority,” the statement read. “We encourage you to take this opportunity to talk with your children and allow them to process the information in a safe and supportive environment.”

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Anna Spoerre
The Kansas City Star
Anna Spoerre covers breaking news for the Kansas City Star. Before joining The Star in 2020, she covered crime and courts for the Des Moines Register. Spoerre is a graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where she studied journalism.
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