Mendocino College Professor Facing Child Sex Abuse Charges to Appear in Court

A preliminary hearing will determine if the professor should face trial for alleged abuse of a minor starting when she was 13 years old.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A 54-year-old Mendocino College professor named Jason Davis is facing six felony charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor that allegedly began when the victim was 13 years old. Davis, an English professor who has been placed on administrative leave, is scheduled to appear in court next week for a preliminary hearing where a judge will decide if there is enough evidence for him to stand trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of child sexual abuse, especially when perpetrated by someone in a position of trust and authority like a teacher. The outcome of the preliminary hearing could have significant implications for the victim, the college, and the broader community's trust in educational institutions.

The details

Davis was originally booked into the Mendocino County Jail on November 20th but was released on $285,000 bail in December after the judge reduced his original $1 million bail. The prosecutor has stated that additional evidence has been found and that more charges may be filed. The defense will be represented by the Mendocino County Public Defender's Office.

  • Davis was booked into the Mendocino County Jail on November 20, 2025.
  • Davis' bail was reduced from $1 million to $285,000 at a December 2025 hearing.
  • The preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 18, 2026 at 1:30 PM.

The players

Jason Davis

A 54-year-old Ukiah resident and English professor at Mendocino College who has been charged with six felonies related to the sexual abuse of a minor starting when she was 13 years old. He has been placed on administrative leave from the college.

Robert Waner

The deputy district attorney prosecuting the case against Davis.

Keith Faulder

The Mendocino County Superior Court judge presiding over the preliminary hearing to determine if there is enough evidence for Davis to stand trial.

Mendocino County Public Defender's Office

The office representing Davis in this case.

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What they’re saying

“There will very likely be additional charges coming in this case. What needs to be at the forefront of the court's mind is that this man engaged in a dating, sexual, cohabitating relationship with a 13-year-old.”

— Robert Waner, Deputy District Attorney (The Mendocino Voice)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on February 18th whether or not there is enough evidence for Jason Davis to stand trial on the charges he is facing.

The takeaway

This disturbing case highlights the critical need for vigilance and accountability in educational institutions to protect vulnerable students from sexual predators, even those in positions of trust. The outcome of the preliminary hearing will be closely watched by the community as they seek justice for the alleged victim.