Former Coldwater Teacher Faces New Felony Charges in Child Abuse Case

Keith Johnson accused of possessing and creating child sexually abusive material

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:03pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked and damaged smartphone screen, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the evidence seized in a criminal investigation.A damaged smartphone screen serves as a stark reminder of the digital evidence uncovered in a criminal investigation involving the exploitation of minors.Coldwater Today

A former middle school teacher in Coldwater, Michigan, Keith Johnson, is facing new felony charges related to child sexually abusive material. The charges stem from a 2025 investigation into reports of people being recorded without their knowledge, during which Johnson's cellphone was seized and evidence of altered images of unclothed minors was allegedly found.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing issue of educators abusing positions of trust and authority, as well as the need for thorough investigations and strong penalties to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and abuse.

The details

Johnson is charged with four counts of child sexually abusive activity, one count of using a computer to commit a felony, and four counts of possession of child sexually abusive material. The charges are punishable by up to 20 years, 20 years, and 4 years in prison, respectively. The new charges come after Johnson was previously accused in a Calhoun County voyeurism case.

  • In 2025, authorities investigated reports of people being recorded without their knowledge.
  • On April 3, 2026, Johnson was arrested by Three Rivers police and arraigned on the new charges.

The players

Keith Johnson

A former middle school teacher in Coldwater, Michigan, who is now facing new felony charges related to child sexually abusive material.

Zachary Stempien

The Branch County Prosecuting Attorney who announced the new charges against Johnson.

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What’s next

Johnson's next court date is scheduled for April 16, 2026, where he will face the new charges.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical importance of vigilance and accountability in the education system, as well as the need for robust safeguards to prevent the exploitation of minors by those in positions of trust.