Former Utah Police Officer Sentenced to 30 Days Jail for Sexual Misconduct

Colten Scott Johansen, a former Ogden police officer and school resource officer, received a suspended prison sentence but must serve 30 days in jail for felony charges related to sexual misdeeds involving minors.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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A former Ogden police officer and school resource officer, Colten Scott Johansen, was sentenced to 30 days in jail for three felony counts related to sexual misconduct involving minors. Judge Catherine Conklin acknowledged Johansen's decorated law enforcement career but said he needed to face consequences for the 'heinous' acts outlined in one of the criminal counts to serve as a deterrent.

Why it matters

This case highlights the issue of sexual misconduct by law enforcement officers, especially those who have otherwise solid records and are trusted to protect the community. It raises questions about accountability and the need for robust oversight and training to prevent such abuses of power, even among respected officers.

The details

Johansen pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor for viewing or possessing child pornography in 2024 and one count of forcible sexual abuse, all second-degree felonies. He was sentenced to one to 15 years in prison on each count, with all but 30 days suspended. Johansen is to serve the 30-day jail sentence at the Weber County jail starting on March 2. He will also serve 60 days of home confinement and be on probation for four years.

  • Johansen was arrested on October 23, 2025 after authorities learned he had child sex abuse material stored at his home.
  • Johansen pleaded guilty on December 4, 2025.
  • Johansen is scheduled to report to the Weber County jail on March 2, 2026 to begin serving his 30-day sentence.

The players

Colten Scott Johansen

A former Ogden police officer and school resource officer who was sentenced to 30 days in jail for three felony counts related to sexual misconduct involving minors.

Judge Catherine Conklin

The judge who sentenced Johansen, acknowledging his decorated law enforcement career but saying he needed to face consequences for his 'heinous' acts.

Randy Watt

The former chief of the Ogden Police Department who testified on Johansen's behalf prior to sentencing, stating that Johansen could be trusted with anything he was asked to do.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think Mr. Johansen is a danger to the community in any respect.”

— Judge Catherine Conklin (KSL)

“It was a one-time deal.”

— Colten Scott Johansen, Former Police Officer (KSL)

“Johansen 'could be trusted with anything we asked him to do.'”

— Randy Watt, Former Ogden Police Chief (KSL)

What’s next

The judge will determine if Johansen is eligible for credit for good behavior during his 30-day jail sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for robust oversight and accountability measures within law enforcement to prevent abuse of power, even among respected officers with otherwise solid records. It underscores the importance of addressing sexual misconduct issues within the policing profession to maintain public trust.