Former Henderson Assistant Principal Pleads Guilty in Student Sex Luring Case

Howard Hughes accepted a plea deal on charges of child endangerment and attempting to contact a minor for criminal activity.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A former assistant principal at a Henderson, Nevada middle school pleaded guilty to charges of child endangerment and attempting to contact a minor for criminal activity after a student recorded him trying to groom her into a sexual relationship. Howard Hughes, who was 61 at the time of his arrest, was accused of inviting an 8th grade student into his office for personal counseling before making inappropriate sexual comments and recommendations to conceal their relationship.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious issue of educators abusing their positions of authority to sexually exploit students, a troubling breach of trust that can have lasting impacts on victims. It also raises concerns about the oversight and disciplinary processes for school administrators, as Hughes still maintained an active license despite the allegations.

The details

According to court documents, Hughes pleaded guilty to one count of contact or attempt to contact a minor by person of authority for the purpose of criminal activity, and one count of child abuse, neglect, or endangerment. He faces a minimum of 1 year in prison for each charge, though the plea agreement stated prosecutors would not oppose the sentences being served concurrently, meaning he could serve only 1 year total. Hughes would also have to register as a sex offender, though the length of time was unspecified.

  • In October 2023, Hughes reportedly invited the 8th grade student into his office for personal and mental health counseling.
  • In March 2024, Hughes was arrested in Texas after being accused of trying to leave the country.
  • In April 2025, Hughes was indicted on seven charges related to the case.
  • On March 8, 2026, Hughes pleaded guilty to the two charges as part of a plea deal.

The players

Howard Hughes

A former assistant principal at Del Webb Middle School in Henderson, Nevada who pleaded guilty to charges of child endangerment and attempting to contact a minor for criminal activity after a student recorded him trying to groom her into a sexual relationship.

Clark County School Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the allegations against Howard Hughes and assisted in his arrest.

Clark County District Attorney's Office

The prosecutorial office that reached a plea deal with Howard Hughes on the charges against him.

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What they’re saying

“I can't believe I was that close to you. Some things are happening inside of me. You got me excited. Damn, you dangerous.”

— Howard Hughes, Former Assistant Principal (Audio recording obtained by 8 News Now)

“If people wasn't out there right now, I would hug you so tight. I might even want to kiss you.”

— Howard Hughes, Former Assistant Principal (Audio recording obtained by 8 News Now)

“It sickens me. No child should ever have to get through that. It sickens me to my core.”

— Victim's Father (8 News Now)

What’s next

A Clark County District Court Judge will impose Hughes' sentence at a future date.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for robust oversight and accountability measures to prevent educators in positions of authority from exploiting and abusing students. It also highlights the importance of empowering students to come forward with reports of misconduct, and ensuring thorough investigations and appropriate disciplinary actions are taken.