Dance Studio Owner Charged with Child Sexual Abuse

Authorities say the suspect molested at least two underage students.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:34am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a child's ballet slipper against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the vulnerability of young students in this disturbing case of alleged abuse.A harsh flash photograph of a child's ballet slipper highlights the vulnerability of young students in this disturbing case of alleged abuse.Salt Lake City Today

The owner of a Cottonwood Heights dance studio in Salt Lake City, Utah has been arrested on three counts of aggravated child sexual abuse. Police allege the suspect molested at least two underage students at the studio over the past year.

Why it matters

Child sexual abuse allegations against a trusted community figure like a dance instructor are deeply disturbing and can have long-lasting impacts on victims. This case highlights the need for rigorous background checks and oversight in youth-serving organizations to protect vulnerable children.

The details

According to police, the dance studio owner allegedly molested at least two underage students at the Cottonwood Heights studio over the past 10 months. The suspect has been charged with three counts of aggravated child sexual abuse, a very serious felony offense.

  • The alleged incidents occurred over the past 10 months.

The players

Cottonwood Heights Dance Studio

A dance studio located in Cottonwood Heights, a suburb of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Suspect

The owner of the Cottonwood Heights dance studio who has been arrested and charged with three counts of aggravated child sexual abuse.

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What’s next

The suspect is currently in custody and awaiting trial on the charges. Authorities are encouraging any other potential victims to come forward.

The takeaway

This disturbing case underscores the need for rigorous background checks, supervision, and safety protocols in youth-serving organizations to protect children from predatory adults who may seek to exploit their positions of trust.