AURORA, Colo. – An Aurora school teacher was arrested Wednesday on numerous counts of sexual misconduct in Arizona.
Police arrested Mark Lindrud, 49, for a warrant issued in Arizona for numerous counts of sexual conduct with a minor and sexual abuse of a minor, according to a news release.
Investigators said Lindrud, who is currently employed as a school teacher at Vista Peak Preparatory school in Aurora, has been placed on administrative leave, but they’re warning the public because the suspect has worked at more than eight Denver metro area schools in his 20 year tenure as a teacher.
In a letter to families, Principal Jason Maclin at Vista Peak Preparatory school confirmed Lindrud has been a Spanish teacher at the school since 2018.
Prior to Lindrud's hire, Aurora Public Schools conducted full criminal background checks through both the Colorado and Federal bureaus of investigation, which it does for every employee, and they did not indicate any prior inappropriate behavior or criminal activity.
The school said the charges stem from crimes allegedly committed in the early 2000s in Arizona.
"Please know that we take this matter seriously and have been cooperating fully with the Oro Valley Police Department as they continue their investigation," the letter says. "This allegation is deeply disturbing, and my focus will remain on supporting our Vista PEAK Preparatory community."
Detectives believe there may be more victims and are asking the public to come forward.
If you’ve been a victim of a crime perpetrated by Lindrud, you are asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at (720) 913-7867.
All APS employees also have free, 24-hour, confidential access to counseling services offered through its Employee Assistance Program at 1-800-284-1819.
