Former Strongsville Schools Official Charged with Public Indecency

Brett Bartlett accused of inappropriate interactions with teenage girls and lewd conduct in a Target parking lot

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Brett Bartlett, the former assistant athletic director for Strongsville City Schools, has been charged with public indecency after police say he was caught performing a sexual act in his car in a Target parking lot. An investigation also uncovered allegations of Bartlett following and watching young girls inside the store, as well as prior issues of inappropriate interactions with teenage girls during his time at another school district.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the vetting and oversight of school officials, especially those in positions of authority over students. It also highlights the need for stronger policies and procedures to address allegations of misconduct and protect vulnerable members of the community.

The details

According to police, officers responded to a call about a man in a black pickup truck following people in the Target parking lot on January 20. They found Bartlett alone in his vehicle and observed him performing a sex act. Bartlett claimed his zipper was undone because he was trying on new pants, but police reviewed surveillance footage that allegedly showed him following and watching young girls inside the store. Bartlett was charged with public indecency on January 31 and pleaded not guilty on February 17.

  • On January 20, police responded to a call about a man following people in a Target parking lot.
  • On January 31, Bartlett was charged with public indecency.
  • On February 5, Bartlett was arraigned on the charges.
  • On February 17, Bartlett pleaded not guilty in Rocky River Municipal Court.

The players

Brett Bartlett

The former assistant athletic director for Strongsville City Schools who has been charged with public indecency and accused of inappropriate interactions with teenage girls.

Strongsville City Schools

The school district where Bartlett previously worked as an assistant athletic director.

Big Walnut High School

The school district where Bartlett previously worked and was the subject of investigations for 'allegations unrelated to students', according to the district.

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What they’re saying

“In the summer of 2024, Big Walnut submitted an Educator Misconduct Referral to the State Board of Education's Office of Professional Conduct. Upon request from the Office of Professional Conduct, additional information was provided in the fall of 2024. The district has no control over the speed at which the State Board conducts its investigation.”

— Big Walnut School District, Spokesperson (NBC4)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Brett Bartlett out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of school officials, as well as the importance of swift action and transparency when allegations of misconduct arise. It underscores the vulnerability of students and the responsibility of educational institutions to protect them.